dare
Dare (verb) means to have the courage or nerve to do something. Example: “She didn't dare tell her boss the truth.”
How to Use Dare
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHaving the nerve to do something, or challenging someone else to.
As a challenge verb, "dare" takes "to" optionally: "I dare you to jump" and "I dare you jump" are both heard, but "dare you to jump" is the safer standard form.
Word Forms
dared past tense, durst past tense, dared past tense, dares plural, dares plural, Dares plural, dares singular, dare singular, dast singular, dares singular
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
She didn't _____ tell her boss the truth.
Etymology
From Old English durran ("to dare"), a very old Germanic verb related to the idea of being bold enough to face something.
Related Words
Rhymes for dare
See all rhymes for dare →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “dare” mean?
The word “dare” means to have the courage or nerve to do something. In plain terms, having the nerve to do something, or challenging someone else to.
How do you pronounce “dare”?
“Dare” is pronounced deh-uh (/dɛ(ə)ɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “dare” in a sentence?
Here is “dare” used in a sentence: “She didn't dare tell her boss the truth.”
What part of speech is “dare”?
Depending on how it is used, “dare” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “dare” come from?
The word “dare” comes from Old English. From Old English durran ("to dare"), a very old Germanic verb related to the idea of being bold enough to face something.
Is “dare” a common word?
“Dare” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “dare” have?
“Dare” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to have the courage or nerve to do something.
What is the difference between 'dare' and 'challenge'?
To 'dare' someone specifically means to challenge them to do something risky as a test of their courage, as in 'I dare you to jump.' A 'challenge' is broader and can invite someone to compete or attempt any difficult task, not only one that proves bravery.
Is 'dare' followed by 'to' or a bare infinitive?
'Dare' can be followed either by a full infinitive with 'to' or by a bare infinitive, and both are correct. You say 'I dare you to try it' with 'to,' but in the fixed phrase 'How dare you speak to me like that,' the bare infinitive is used without 'to.'
Can 'dare' be used as a modal verb?
Yes, 'dare' can act as a modal verb, especially in questions and negatives, as in 'I dare not ask' or 'How dare he.' In these uses it does not take 'to' and does not add an '-s' in the third person.