English Reference

Word

daring

Phoneticsdar·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈdɛɹɪŋ/

UK/dˈeəɹɪŋ/

Definitions

01brave and risky

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. brave and willing to do dangerous or difficult things.

adj. willing to take risks or perform adventurous acts; courageous and bold.

“The daring pilot flew his small plane across the ocean alone.”

“The daring rescue mission was launched under the cover of darkness, despite the high probability of detection by enemy radar.”

Antonyms

02bold and original

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. new, unusual, and likely to shock or impress people.

adj. boldly unconventional or original in style, often challenging established norms.

“She wore a daring dress to the party that everyone talked about.”

“The architect's daring design for the new museum combined industrial glass with traditional stone in a way that divided local critics.”

03the quality of bravery

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Literary

n. the quality of being brave and willing to take risks.

n. the quality of boldness or adventurous courage. Uncountable in most contexts.

“The explorers showed great daring by entering the deep, dark cave.”

“It was a feat of incredible daring that required not only physical strength but also a complete disregard for personal safety.”

Antonyms

cautiontimidity

Real-World Examples

“It’s daring but not so daring that newsagents aren’t going to stock it.”
The Guardian 15 Sept 2026
“He is pulled out of the water and out of his shell by his daring new friend, Alberto.”
Scientific American 18 Aug 2026

Word family

ADJECTIVE

daring(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference