a dear friend

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dear friend" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express affection or closeness towards someone you consider a close friend. Example: "I was so happy to see a dear friend after many years apart."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Katie's a dear friend.

The New York Times

She's a dear friend.

The New York Times

A dear friend.

The New York Times

We've lost a dear friend.

Independent

One is a dear friend.

The New York Times

He was a dear friend to many.

The New York Times

We have lost a dear friend.

The New York Times

You are a dear friend to me".

The New Yorker

Seena was a dear friend to many.

The New York Times

A dear friend of many.

The New York Times

Love to a dear friend.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing obituaries or memorial pieces, this phrase helps to express the personal loss of someone close.

Common error

While "a dear friend" can be used in formal settings, consider if it aligns with the overall tone. In some cases, "a valued colleague" or "a respected associate" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a dear friend" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or an appositive. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and conveys affection and closeness. For instance, 'Katie's a dear friend.' (Ludwig example)

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a dear friend" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to convey affection and closeness, as confirmed by Ludwig. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it serves to highlight the value of a friendship. While versatile, consider the formality of the context to ensure appropriateness, opting for alternatives like "a valued colleague" in more professional settings. Use it to express genuine warmth and appreciation for someone special in your life.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a close friend

Focuses on the intimacy and proximity of the friendship.

a cherished friend

Emphasizes the value and appreciation held for the friend.

a beloved friend

Highlights the affection and love felt for the friend.

a valued friend

Stresses the importance and worth the friend holds.

a special friend

Indicates the uniqueness and significance of the friendship.

an intimate friend

Emphasizes deep connection and shared confidences.

a true friend

Highlights the loyalty and authenticity of the friendship.

a good friend

A more general term, indicating a positive and supportive relationship.

a steadfast friend

Focuses on the reliability and enduring nature of the friendship.

a longtime friend

Highlights the duration and history of the friendship.

FAQs

How can I use "a dear friend" in a sentence?

You can use "a dear friend" to describe someone you have a close, affectionate relationship with. For example, "She has been "a dear friend" to me for many years."

What are some alternatives to "a dear friend"?

Some alternatives include "a close friend", "a cherished friend", or "a beloved friend". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a dear friend" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider the context. In formal business or academic writing, "a valued colleague" or "a respected associate" might be more suitable than "a dear friend", which carries a more personal tone.

What is the difference between "a dear friend" and "a good friend"?

"A good friend" is a general term for someone you enjoy spending time with and trust. "A dear friend" implies a deeper level of affection, closeness, and emotional connection.