dear - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
dear Word Meanings
- valued or cherished
- costing a lot of money
- used in affectionate addresses (e.g., 'dear friend')
dear Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
dear Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪə/
US
/dɪr/
dear Word Etymology
Dear is composed of the root 'dear' meaning 'beloved' from Old English 'deore', connected to the Germanic roots of affection and value. Originating in Old English, it traces back to Proto-Germanic. Imagine giving a dear friend a heartfelt letter expressing your affection, with a precious seal of love.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I grip a letter and move it closer, letting the paper warm my lap as I settle in. When I reach the greeting, I adjust my voice in my head, soft and sincere. The word dear sits at the top like a small sun on the page, a reminder of someone valued. In a real note, I hold back a tremor, let the tone grow calm, and the exchange shifts toward care.
Real Context
Dear has three main uses in English: as a warm address to someone you value, as a descriptor meaning expensive in some British or older registers, and as a salutation in letters. In the first sense, dear signals affection and closeness, as in talking to a friend or family member; in the second sense it means costly and is often replaced by expensive or pricey in modern American English. In letter writing, dear opens a greeting such as Dear Jane or Dear Sir, setting the tone from friendly to formal. The word traces to Old English deore, meaning beloved, tying affection to value. Learners should keep register straight: dear for warmth, not for general price in everyday conversation.
Usage Reminders
- Use dear for warm address in close relationships or in formal letters
- If referring to price, dear is informal or archaic in US; prefer expensive or costly
- Do not use dear with people you do not know well in casual context
- In business emails, opening with Dear [Name] is standard but avoid over-friendliness
- Remember that dear also implies emotional value, not just money
Common Misconceptions
- Dear always means expensive; it does not
- Dear can be used with strangers in casual speech
- Dear is a noun in most contexts
- Dear replaces all other salutations in letters
- Dear means the same as beloved in every context
Thinking Differences
English uses dear in affectionate, pricing, and formal letter contexts; learners often mix senses (affection vs price) or overuse in casual business. Other languages tend to separate these senses more strictly, so direct translation can yield odd tone if context is missed.
Learning Tips
- Practice the three senses in isolation with paired examples
- Memorize common collocations: dear friend, dear John
- Use Dear in formal letters with a name; not in casual emails
- When talking about price, prefer expensive or costly
- Avoid addressing strangers with dear in everyday speech
- Check tone: dear conveys warmth; adjust to audience
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'dear'?
A.Valuable
B.Friendly
C.Annoying
D.Boring
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'dear' used correctly?
A.I am so dear for your help.
B.The prices are dear in this store.
C.He always gives me dear compliments.
D.My dear friend visited me yesterday.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'dear'?
A.Precious
B.Cheap
C.Mean
D.Random
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an opposite of 'dear'?
A.Inexpensive
B.Caring
C.Valued
D.Generous
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would you use the word 'dear'?
A.Talking about something worthless
B.Describing a boring movie
C.Expressing affection towards someone
D.Complaining about high prices
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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