Who can I call 'dear'?
Native speaker’s answer
Rebecca
The word 'dear' is a form of address used between people who feel affection for each other. It means the same as 'honey,' or 'sweetheart.' Young people are not using this term often, but older people like grandparents might use it a lot. But if you call a stranger 'dear', it can sound condescending or offensive. So be careful.