Based on the Word Sketch function of Sketch Engine,this research constructs E-C verb metaphor models of "dream" and investigates their translation with a case study of the English translation of "Four Dreams of Linchuan" by Zhang Guangqian,which finds that:1) The Sketch Engine word sketch function can effectively identify different vocabulary collocations to generalize the verb metaphor model;2) The hidden source domains of "dream" metaphor mainly include moving body,valuables,fragile objects,events,and human/animal,among which the moving body has the highest proportion;3) In response to the explicit verb metaphorical expression of cultural characteristics,the translator tends to evade the implicit nominal source domain of the metaphor mechanism,trying to create a better aesthetic effect for native English speakers.This research may help to show the English speakers the unique way of Chinese cognition and contribute to the "Going Global" project of Chinese traditional culture.