Meaning

(intransitive) To have enough courage (to do something)..

Definitions by Sense

1. (intransitive) To have enough courage (to do something).
2. (transitive) To defy or challenge (someone to do something).
3. (transitive) To have enough courage to meet or do something, go somewhere, etc.; to face up to.
4. (transitive) To terrify; to daunt.
5. (archaic, transitive) To drive larks to the ground by scaring them (for instance, with mirrors or hawks) so they can be caught in nets.
6. A challenge to prove courage.
7. The quality of daring; venturesomeness; boldness.
8. Defiance; challenge.

Example Sentences

I wouldn't dare (to) argue with my boss.

No one dares (to) criticize his decisions.

They daredn't tell me the truth, even though I dared (to) acknowledge my mistake to them.

I daren't tell him I've had an affair with another man.

The fellow dares not deceive me.

Why then did not the ministers use their new law? Because they durst not, because they could not.

Don't back away just yet / From destinations set / I dare you to be proud / To dare to shout aloud / For convictions that you feel / Like sound from bells to peal

I dare you to kiss that girl.

Word Forms

• dares
• dare
• dast
• daring
• dared
• durst

Synonyms for dare

Related Words

When Should You Use Dare?

Use dare when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

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