In an ideal/a perfect world

Pro Tip 1/3

The phrase often suggests a hypothetical or non-realistic situation used for comparison.

In an ideal world, I'd have a private jet to avoid traffic.

Pro Tip 2/3

Use it to express what you wish would happen, knowing that it's unlikely or impractical.

In a perfect world, all children would have access to free education.

Pro Tip 3/3

It's often used to contrast an imperfect current situation with a desirable, but unreachable, alternative.

In an ideal world, we would not need to work overtime.