Dream Past Tense

Illustration of Dream Past Tense
The past tense of the word "dream" has two forms: "dreamed" and "dreamt".

Dream Past Forms - Exercises

These exercises test different forms of the verb DREAM and IRREGULAR VERBS

 

Dreamed vs. Dreamt

  • Dreamed: This is the most commonly used past tense of "dream" in American English and is accepted in both American and British English.

  • Dreamt: This form is more common in British English, but it’s also understood and sometimes used in American English. "Dreamt" has a slightly poetic or literary feel.

Examples of "Dreamed" and "Dreamt" in Sentences

  1. Dreamed:

    • "Last night, I dreamed about flying over mountains."

    • "She dreamed of becoming a doctor since she was a child."

  2. Dreamt:

    • "He dreamt of exploring space as a young boy."

    • "I dreamt about a beautiful garden full of flowers."

Summary Table

Present

Past (American English)

Past (British English)

dream

dreamed

dreamt

Choosing Between "Dreamed" and "Dreamt"

  • American English: "Dreamed" is more common.

  • British English: "Dreamt" is preferred, though "dreamed" is also correct.

  • Context: "Dreamt" can be used to add a literary or poetic tone in writing.

FAQ

Can I use "dreamt" in American English?

Yes, "dreamt" is understood in American English, though "dreamed" is more common.

Is "dreamt" more formal than "dreamed"?

No, but "dreamt" can sound more literary or poetic, especially in written English.

Do "dreamed" and "dreamt" have different meanings?

No, both forms mean the same thing and can be used interchangeably.

Are both forms accepted on exams like TOEFL or IELTS?

Yes, both "dreamed" and "dreamt" are correct in both British and American English, so they’re acceptable on English exams.

 
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