I do not dare

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I do not dare" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when expressing hesitation or fear about taking a certain action. Example: "I do not dare to speak my mind in such a heated discussion." Alternative expressions include "I cannot bring myself to" and "I am afraid to."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

I do not dare to write down what I think of it".

The New Yorker

Of the plot itself I do not dare give away more.

The Washington Post

But still, I do not dare tell anyone the truth at work.

The Guardian

Even so, her family has still never attended one of her performances: "I do not dare to invite them.

The Guardian

Note that, in the interests of good taste, I do not dare make predictions on the mortality of the Castro brothers, or Hugo Chávez.

The Economist

When his wife reaches to comfort him, he shakes off her touch, covers his face with his forearms, and cries, "I do not dare to remember my past.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

I don't dare ask.

Independent

I don't dare.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I don't dare answer," he replied.

The Washington Post

I don't dare do that.

The Guardian - Music

I don't dare to ask anyone to do it".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I do not dare" to express a strong sense of hesitation or fear, particularly when the potential consequences are significant. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "I do not dare" can sound overly dramatic in everyday situations. Consider using simpler alternatives like "I'm afraid to" or "I wouldn't risk it" in casual conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I do not dare" functions as a modal expression, indicating a lack of confidence or willingness to perform a specific action. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically sound and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I do not dare" is a grammatically correct way to express fear, hesitation, or a lack of courage. As shown by Ludwig, it's used in both News & Media and scientific contexts, but it's more formal and less common than alternatives like "I'm afraid to" or "I wouldn't risk it". While it is accurate to express fear or reluctance about taking a certain action, you should consider the audience and the overall tone of your writing to avoid sounding overly dramatic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'm too afraid to

Directly expresses fear as the reason for not doing something.

I'm not brave enough to

Similar to "I'm too afraid to", but focuses on bravery as the missing quality.

I wouldn't risk it

Emphasizes the avoidance of risk, implying a lack of courage or willingness to face potential consequences.

I lack the courage to

Formally states the absence of courage as a limiting factor.

I'm not bold enough to

Highlights a lack of courage or audacity.

I'm hesitant to

Indicates a reluctance or unwillingness to proceed.

I'm unwilling to

Expresses a firm decision not to do something, often due to fear or discomfort.

I'm loath to

Indicates a strong aversion or reluctance.

I shrink from

Suggests recoiling or drawing back from something due to fear or dislike.

I tremble at the thought of

Emphasizes the fear and anxiety associated with considering a particular action or situation.

FAQs

What does "I do not dare" mean?

The phrase "I do not dare" expresses a lack of courage or willingness to do something, often due to fear of the potential consequences. It suggests a strong sense of hesitation and reluctance.

How can I use "I do not dare" in a sentence?

You can use "I do not dare" to express your unwillingness to take a certain action. For example, "I do not dare to speak my mind in such a heated discussion" or "I do not dare to look down from this height".

What can I say instead of "I do not dare"?

You can use alternatives like "I'm afraid to", "I wouldn't risk it", or "I'm too scared to" depending on the context.

Is "I do not dare" formal or informal?

The phrase "I do not dare" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it may sound slightly more formal than some of its alternatives. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing when deciding whether to use this phrase.