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dear

[dɪər]

dear Definition

  • 1loved or valued very much
  • 2highly priced
  • 3used at the beginning of a letter to address the recipient

Using dear: Examples

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

  • Example

    My dear friend, I hope this letter finds you well.

  • Example

    The ring was very dear to her heart.

  • Example

    The price of the car was too dear for me to afford.

  • Example

    She is a dear colleague who always helps me.

dear Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with dear

  • an expression used to show surprise, shock, or annoyance

    Example

    Dear me, I forgot my keys again!

  • with all one's strength or might, often in a situation of danger

    Example

    She held onto the rope for dear life as she climbed up the mountain.

  • to cause someone to suffer a great deal, especially financially

    Example

    The mistake cost the company dear, resulting in a huge loss of revenue.

Origins of dear

from Old English 'dēore', meaning 'precious, valuable, costly, loved, beloved'

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Summary: dear in Brief

The term 'dear' [dɪər] can mean something that is loved or valued very much, such as 'The ring was very dear to her heart,' or something that is highly priced, like 'The price of the car was too dear for me to afford.' It is also used at the beginning of a letter to address the recipient, as in 'My dear friend.' Phrases include 'dear me,' used to show surprise or annoyance, and 'for dear life,' meaning with all one's strength, often in a dangerous situation.

How do native speakers use this expression?