to dare
Definition
The meaning: Dare means to have the courage to do something risky or bold. It can also refer to challenging someone to do something difficult or dangerous.
La signification : Le verbe to dare signifie être assez courageux pour faire quelque chose de difficile ou de dangereux, ou être assez insolent ou stupide pour faire quelque chose que l'on n'a pas le droit de faire.
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Here's an example of use: "Do you dare to speak in front of that crowd?"
This word is often used when speaking about bravery, risk‐taking, or issuing a challenge.
Word Analysis
French equivalents »» Oser »» Défier »» Avoir le courage de »» Prendre le risque »» Avoir du culot Ⓐ Est‐ce que tu oses lui dire la vérité ? Ⓑ Il m’a défié de sauter dans l’eau glacée. English equivalents »» Challenge »» Risk »» Venture »» Have the nerve to »» Be ballsy »» Have the guts to Ⓐ She dared to question the boss. Ⓑ I wouldn’t dare go alone at night.
Dialogue
Jonas: "Are you really going to ask her out?" Linda: "I might. I mean… why not? I dare myself to do it!"
Etymology
Origin: The word dare comes from Old English *durran*, meaning “to brave or have courage.” It is related to German *wagen* and Latin *audere*, which also mean “to risk” or “to be bold.”
Modern Usage: Today, it can be used as a verb ("I dare you") or a noun ("That was a dare").
Connotation: Often positive (courage, bravery) but can be playful or provocative in tone, especially with children or challenges.
Grammar Note: "Dare" can be both a modal and regular verb. Example: "He dare not speak" (literary), or "She dares to dream big" (modern).
Audience
"Dare" is commonly used in everyday speech, books, films, and motivational language.
When to use: Use it when talking about courage, provocation, or taking action despite fear. For example: "They dared to stand up for justice in a hostile environment."
Dictionary Meaning
The Free Dictionary defines it as "To have the courage required for." The given example is: "The gymnast dared a breathtakingly difficult move."
News Snippet
"I watched in awe as the Swedish teenager gave a sterling speech at the UN Climate Action Summit, addressing world leaders and asking them simply, “How dare you?”. How dare you carry on with business as usual, when the planet is burning and we face imminent extinction as a species?."
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For a fun and engaging exploration of our word of the day, watch the following…The meaning of 'to relent'
Sir Ridley Scott
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Common Idioms & Expressions Related to "Dare"
Throw down the gauntlet
To issue a challenge, especially publicly or defiantly.
Example: "The candidate threw down the gauntlet by accusing her opponent of corruption."
Tempt fate
To do something risky or dangerous that could lead to trouble or bad luck.
Example: "Climbing without a rope is really tempting fate."
Take the plunge
To dare to do something difficult or risky, especially after hesitation.
Example: "After years of thinking about it, he finally took the plunge and started his own business."
Stick your neck out
To take a risk by saying or doing something that could cause trouble or criticism.
Example: "She stuck her neck out to defend the unpopular proposal."
Fools rush in (where angels fear to tread)
Used to describe people who take bold actions without considering the risks or consequences.
Example: "He volunteered to lead the risky expedition—fools rush in, as they say."
Daredevil attitude
A reckless or adventurous approach, often with disregard for safety.
Example: "His daredevil attitude on the slopes impressed his friends, but worried his instructor."
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