Is "what is but a dream" a proper usage of grammar?

Question

I'm writing an essay and am required to include an insightful last sentence. So I came up with this: "You’re going to be that kind of woman who will throw away her life for what is but a dream?" Is the last part ("what is but a dream") a proper usage of English grammar? Or should I change it to "that which is but a dream"?

Answer 1

Hi There!

So, I think this if fine, especially if this is supposed to be a creative essay. But, there are certainly ways to improve the sentence.

If you want to keep this is question form here's one possibility:

"Are you going to be the type of woman who thows her life away for what is simply a dream?"

I personally like the idea of changing this into a statement to give it more power and insight.

As a rule of thumb, simple and concise wins the race. Your proposed edit is a little too wordy and may be difficult for your audience to digest.

Really hope this helps!

Answer 2

Your original sentence is proper use of English grammar. Feel free to keep it as is!