a dare

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dare" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a challenge or provocation to do something risky or adventurous. Example: "He issued a dare to his friends to jump off the diving board."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Not on a dare.

The New York Times

It's a dare.

The Guardian - Music

Call it food on a dare.

The New York Times

On a dare, she dunked a volleyball.

The New York Times - Sports

In New York it's a dare.

The New York Times

Did he lose a dare?

The Guardian

But a dare was a dare, especially one with the national championship on the line.

The New York Times - Sports

Woman "WHY?" Man (gleeful) "As a dare".

The Guardian

Was this, I wondered, a dare?

The Guardian - Arts

It was taken as a dare.

The New Yorker

"It started as a dare," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a dare" when you want to emphasize the aspect of being challenged or provoked into doing something risky or unconventional. Consider the context to ensure it aligns with the intended nuance.

Common error

Avoid using "a dare" when the situation involves minimal risk or challenge. Opt for alternatives like "a suggestion" or "an invitation" if the action doesn't involve significant risk or provocation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a dare" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb (e.g., accept, issue, resist) or as a subject complement. Ludwig's examples show its frequent use in describing situations involving challenges or provocations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

11%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a dare" functions as a noun phrase, commonly used to describe a challenge that involves risk or provocation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, its informality can vary depending on the situation. Related phrases include "a challenge" and "a provocation", which offer nuanced alternatives. A key writing tip is to reserve "a dare" for situations where the element of risk or social pressure is significant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a challenge

Focuses on the aspect of being tested or challenged.

a provocation

Highlights the act of instigating or provoking someone.

a risky proposition

Emphasizes the element of risk involved.

a bold undertaking

Stresses the courageous or audacious nature of the action.

a test of courage

Highlights the bravery required to accept the challenge.

an act of defiance

Emphasizes the rebellious or disobedient nature of the action.

a tempting fate

Focuses on the allure of the potential consequences.

a wager

Highlights the aspect of betting or gambling on the outcome.

a risky venture

Stresses the element of uncertainty and potential loss.

a game of chance

Emphasizes the role of luck in the outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "a dare" in a sentence?

You can use "a dare" to describe a challenge to do something risky or foolish. For example, "He accepted "a dare" to jump into the freezing lake".

What can I say instead of "a dare"?

You can use alternatives like "a challenge", "a provocation", or "a risky proposition" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a dare"?

"A dare" is appropriate when someone is challenged to do something that involves risk, bravery, or foolishness. It's often used in situations involving peer pressure or testing one's limits.

What's the difference between "a dare" and "a challenge"?

While both involve being asked to do something difficult, "a challenge" is a broader term that doesn't necessarily imply risk or foolishness, whereas "a dare" often suggests a higher level of risk or social pressure.