dare

[deə(r)]

dare Definition

• 1. to be brave enough to do something difficult or dangerous
• 2. to challenge someone to do something as a test of courage

Using dare: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dare" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  I dare you to jump off that cliff.

• Example

  She didn't dare to speak up in front of her boss.

• Example

  He dared to climb the highest mountain in the region.

• Example

  I wouldn't dare to cross the busy street without looking both ways.

dare Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for dare

• challenge
• risk
• venture
• brave
• defy

Antonyms for dare

• avoid
• shun
• fear

Phrases with dare

• double dare

  a challenge that is even more daring than a regular dare

  Example

  I double dare you to eat that whole chili pepper!

• daredevil

  a person who takes unnecessary risks, especially in dangerous activities such as skydiving or bungee jumping

  Example

  He's a bit of a daredevil and loves to try extreme sports.

• how dare you

  an expression of anger or indignation at someone's behavior or words

  Example

  How dare you speak to me like that?!

Origins of dare

from Old English 'durran', meaning 'have the courage to'

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Summary: dare in Brief

The verb 'dare' [deə(r)] means to have the courage to do something difficult or dangerous, or to challenge someone to do something as a test of courage. It can be used in phrases like 'double dare,' which is an even more daring challenge, and 'how dare you,' which expresses anger or indignation. Synonyms include 'challenge' and 'defy,' while antonyms include 'avoid' and 'fear.'