dear
- 01 A1 Beginner
adj.a polite way to start a letter or email before the person's name.
adj.a conventional formula of address used at the beginning of letters or formal communications.
Simple“Dear Mr. Smith, I am writing to thank you for your help.”
In context“Dear Professor Higgins, I would like to formally request an extension on my final thesis submission.”
UsageAlways placed before the recipient's name or title.
Synonyms - 02 A2 Elementary
adj.someone or something that you love or care about very much.
adj.regarded with deep affection; cherished or highly valued.
Simple“She lost a very dear friend in the accident last year.”
In context“The old photograph was dear to him, representing the only surviving image of his childhood home before the war.”
UsageOften follows 'to' when describing the relationship, such as 'dear to me'.
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.costing a lot of money.
adj.high in price; expensive. Primarily used in British and Irish English.
Simple“Everything in that shop is much too dear for my budget.”
In context“While the quality of the fabric is undeniable, the tailor's services are becoming increasingly dear for the average customer.”
Antonyms - 04 B1 Intermediate
n.a kind person, or a name you call someone you love.
n.an affectionate or familiar term of address for a person; also used to describe a helpful or kind individual.
Simple“Could you help me with these bags, there's a dear?”
In context“The neighbor is such a dear; she always brings over extra vegetables from her garden during the harvest season.”
Synonyms - 05 A2 Elementary
interj.a word used to show you are surprised, sorry, or a little annoyed.
interj.an exclamation used to express surprise, distress, sympathy, or preoccupation.
Simple“Oh dear, I think I've forgotten my keys in the car.”
In context“Dear me, the weather has certainly taken a turn for the worse since we arrived at the coast.”
UsageCommonly used in the phrases 'Oh dear' or 'Dear me'.
Synonymsoh nogoodness