Synonyms for

Dare

Verb / der / Another word for dare — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To have the courage to do something or to challenge someone to do something.

Synonyms & similar words

daring makebold defy presume challenge provocation defy tempt risk brave face confront venture gamble bet wager stake jeopardize endanger threaten menace intimidate

Synonyms by register

Formal

venture presume challenge defy

Informal

have the guts be brave enough be bold enough stick your neck out

Literary

brave venture forth assay

Antonyms

cower shrink fear quail flinch hesitate yield

Common collocations

  • dare to dream
  • dare to try
  • dare to go
  • dare to say
  • dare to ask
  • dare to face
  • dare to believe

Word family

noun dare
verb dare
adjective daring

Usage note

The verb 'dare' can be used with or without 'to' before the infinitive (e.g., 'He dared to speak' or 'He dared speak'). The construction 'dare not' is more formal and less common than 'don't dare'.

Example sentences

  1. I dare you to eat this bug.
  2. She dared to climb to the top of the tree.
  3. I don't think I can dare to speak in front of so many people.
  4. He dared to jump over the fence.
  5. I dare you to try and catch me!

Quotes

  • “To dare is to lose one's footing momentarily. To not dare is to lose oneself.” - Soren Kierkegaard
  • “Dare to be strong and courageous. That is the road. Venture anything.” - Sherwood Anderson
  • “Dare to err and to dream. Deep meaning often lies in childish plays.” - Friedrich Schiller

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