Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[s_sirotori_m]

Hi, everyone
I have a question about the noun �dream�.

#1 He tried to realize his dream of running his own business.
#2 He tried to realize the dream of running his own business.
#3 He tried to realize his dream that he�ll run his own business.
#4 He tried to realize the dream that he�ll run his own business.

#5 He tried to realize his dream of his family living together again.
#6 He tried to realize the dream of his family living together again.
#7 He tried to realize his dream that his family will live together again.
#8 He tried to realize the dream that his family will live together again.

Of the above sentences, which can we say?

Thanks in advance

[Bob S.]

his dream of ____ing is the most common form.
his dream that ... is a close second.

You only use the dream when referring to a common dream considered to be held by all or most people. For example:
He tried to realize the American dream of owning his own house.

Running your own business or having your family live together is not necessarily a common dream by most people.

___________________
What is the use of living, if it be not to strive for noble causes and to make this muddled world a better place for those who will live in it after we are gone?
-Sir Winston Churchill