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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Distinguish an appealing but unlikely plan from a realistic goal or a well-supported promise.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe episode explains “pie in the sky” for an attractive hope or plan that seems very unlikely to happen, often because there is no practical support for it. It compares the expression with “pipe dream” and “wishful thinking.”
Cultural note: These phrases can sound dismissive when used about someone else’s hopes. “Pie in the sky” is figurative and often humorous; a realistic ambition is not automatically a pipe dream simply because it is difficult.
Keep exploringThe difference between a hopeful plan and wishful thinking often comes down to evidence and practical next steps. Listen for the expressions that signal optimism without a workable plan.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe dreams that sound appealing but lack a realistic path.
Meaning
An attractive hope or promise that is unlikely to become real.
Tone & use
Informal and often skeptical or humorous. It can criticize a plan that lacks evidence or practical steps.
Example
“Without a budget or timeline, the promise to open ten new branches sounded like pie in the sky.”
Meaning
A hope or plan that is very unlikely to happen.
Tone & use
Informal and usually skeptical. It is often used when someone sees no realistic way for the plan to succeed.
Example
“Winning the tournament without practicing was a pipe dream, so he signed up for lessons.”
Meaning
Believing something will happen mainly because you want it to, not because there is good evidence.
Tone & use
Common in conversation and writing. It is critical, but less colorful than “pie in the sky.”
Example
“Hoping the rain would stop without checking the forecast was wishful thinking.”
Talk about claims that are not backed by a practical plan.
Meaning
A promise that is not supported by a genuine intention or realistic plan to fulfill it.
Tone & use
Often critical. Use it when someone repeatedly promises something but does not follow through.
Example
“The tenants had heard the empty promise about repairs many times, so they asked for a written schedule.”
Meaning
Make a hoped-for goal actually happen through effort or planning.
Tone & use
An encouraging phrase. It highlights taking practical steps rather than simply imagining success.
Example
“She turned her dream of opening a bakery into reality by saving money and testing recipes for two years.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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