Word Wise: Is It Dreamt or Dreamed?

Hmm, is it dreamt or dreamed? This is once again one of those cases where people can't help but get confused. My spellchecker for one, tells me that dreamt is a spelling mistake. Yet, many of you have heard of both these forms. Both are after all the past tense of dream.

Of Dreams I Dreamt

Dreamt is just as acceptable as dreamed. Merriam Webster has both these forms under dream. This can be considered as a little strange, as few words have two past tenses. But, even when it is acceptable, dreamt isn't used as much as dreamed. Dreamt is used about 7 times less in American English than dreamed, whereas dreamt in British English is used only 2.5 times less than dreamed. See it here and here on an ngram graph.

Still, the point stands that dreamt drew the short end of the straw. It is clear that it is used more in British English than in American English. Does this make dreamt the British version?

I Dreamed a Dream

The Collins Dictionary had this to say, "American English uses the form dreamed as the past tense and past participle. British English uses either dreamed or dreamt". It's clear that dreamed is the most used version in both British and American English and that dreamed is also considered the American past tense. But which one should you use?

So, Which One Is It Dreamt or Dreamed?

Since both words are correct, you can use your own preference. However, you need to keep in mind that dreamed is more well-known and used. It would be good to know your readers. If most of your readers use American English, dreamt might seem a little out of place to them, whereas the British readers might be more accepting.

At the end of the day, your choice must be written down in your own house-rules. This means you keep with it throughout your written works. Try not to jump between the two versions. Your readers will get used to your writing style, but if you jump between the two versions, they might get a little distracted.

Which will you choose to use? Comment below and let us know!

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