Idiom idiom
oh dear
Meaning
A phrase you say when something a little bad or surprising happens. It shows mild disappointment, sympathy, or worry.
Examples
“Oh dear, I dropped my coffee on the floor.”
“Oh dear, it looks like the train is delayed by another hour.”
“Oh dear, the sudden storm has ruined all of our plans for the outdoor wedding ceremony.”
Last updated June 7, 2026