Dream Meaning
- casual
The Spanish word "sueño" refers to both the mental images we experience while sleeping and the physical state of needing sleep. It captures that fleeting, ethereal quality of dreams while also grounding itself in the very relatable human feeling of fatigue. In usage, you must be careful with the verb "tener" (to have). Saying "tengo sueño" means "I am sleepy," whereas "tengo un sueño" refers to having a specific dream or a life ambition. It is a very common word that fits perfectly into both casual conversations about your night and more poetic discussions about goals.
Dream in Conversation
Morning after a strange night
- Ana: ¡Tuve un sueño rarísimo anoche!I had a really weird dream last night!
- Luis: ¿Ah sí? Cuéntame, ¿qué pasó?Oh yeah? Tell me, what happened?
Use 'tener un sueño' when describing the content of a dream.
Feeling tired at work
- Sofía: No dormí nada, tengo mucho sueño.I didn't sleep at all, I'm very sleepy.
- Carlos: Tómate un café, te ayudará.Have a coffee, it will help you.
Use 'tener sueño' to express the physical state of sleepiness.
Examples
Tengo mucho sueño.
I am very sleepy.
Anoche tuve un sueño muy bonito.
Last night I had a very beautiful dream.
Perseguir sus sueños requiere mucha valentía.
Chasing one's dreams requires a lot of courage.