What is the Difference Between Dreamed and Dreamt?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚Both "dreamed" and "dreamt" are acceptable past tense forms of the verb "dream". The difference between the two lies in their formation and usage:
- Dreamed: This form follows the pattern of regular verbs, ending with "-ed". It is more common in American English and is the most commonly used variant in both British and American English.
- Dreamt: This form is irregular and often considered the British version. It is more common in British English, but both "dreamed" and "dreamt" have been in use since the 14th century.
Some writers and speakers might choose "dreamed" for clarity or to sound more concise, while others might use "dreamt" to add eloquence or make an idea feel more profound. Ultimately, there is no definitive rule about using one word instead of the other, and the choice between "dreamed" and "dreamt" is simply a matter of style and preference.
Comparative Table: Dreamed vs Dreamt
The difference between "dreamed" and "dreamt" lies in their usage and frequency in different varieties of English. Both words are past tense forms of the verb "dream" and can be used interchangeably. Here is a table comparing their usage:
| Feature | Dreamed | Dreamt |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Past tense of the verb "dream" | Past tense of the verb "dream" |
| Usage | Regular verb, follows the standard rule of adding "-ed" to the base form of the verb | Irregular verb, does not follow the standard rule of adding "-ed" to the base form of the verb |
| Frequency | More common in American English | More common in British English, though "dreamed" is also commonly used |
| Examples | - Last night, I dreamed that I was flying. - She has never dreamed of becoming a doctor. |
- Last night, I dreamt that I was flying. - She has never dreamt of becoming a doctor. |
In summary, both "dreamed" and "dreamt" are correct forms of the past tense of the verb "dream." "Dreamed" is more common in American English, while "dreamt" is more common in British English. However, both forms are widely accepted and used in both British and American English.