are dear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are dear" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express affection or value towards someone or something. Example: "My family and friends are dear to me, and I cherish every moment spent with them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Dear Hollywood: Sherri Shepherd And Octavia Spencer Are Not The Same Person but we are dear friends, LOL.

Huffington Post

These volumes are dear, and dearly priced.

The New York Times - Travel

"I regret terribly the impact on my family, friends and institutions that are dear to me".

The New York Times

These two boys are dear to me for their forbearance and love, their loyalty and sadness.

The New Yorker

"The historic buildings in Sag Harbor are dear to my heart," he said.

The New York Times

Eventually, faithful friends who are dear to us do gather near to us once more.

The New York Times - Style

And is not Hercule Poirot the true messiah?" "How wise you are, dear husband.

The Guardian - Books

"The Clintons are dear, wonderful friends and have been for six years," Mrs. Iscol said.

The New York Times

Farmers markets -- and all they represent -- are dear to my heart.

The New York Times

But batteries, apparently, are dear in Belize, and the lamps put out feeble illumination.

The New York Times

This is not Mr. Bloomberg's first time supporting charitable causes that are dear to his close associates.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are dear" to express genuine affection or to emphasize the value someone or something holds for you. For instance, "Memories of childhood summers are dear to me."

Common error

Avoid using "are dear" in highly formal or technical writing where a more objective or precise term might be appropriate. Opt for phrases like "are significant" or "are highly valued" in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are dear" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun by ascribing a quality of being loved, valued, or cherished. Ludwig examples show the usage in sentences where it describes friends, memories, or items held in high regard.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are dear" is a frequently used phrase to express affection, value, or importance towards someone or something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it's best to avoid it in strictly formal settings where objectivity is paramount. Consider alternatives like ""are beloved"" or ""are cherished"" for nuanced expression. Remember, the emotional weight of "are dear" makes it ideal for conveying personal sentiment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are beloved

Focuses on the feeling of being loved or cherished by others.

are cherished

Emphasizes the act of holding something as precious or valuable.

are highly valued

Highlights the significant worth or importance attributed to something.

are precious

Stresses the rarity and irreplaceability of something.

are treasured

Implies a deep sense of appreciation and care.

are important to

Indicates significance or relevance to someone or something.

are significant for

Highlights the notable impact or consequence of something.

mean a lot to

Conveys a strong emotional connection or personal value.

are close to one's heart

Indicates a deep emotional connection and personal importance.

are of great importance

Highlights the substantial significance and impact of something.

FAQs

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

"Are dear" is typically used to describe something or someone that is loved, valued, or important. For example, "These old photographs are dear to me because they remind me of my childhood."

What can I say instead of "are dear"?

You can use alternatives like "are beloved", "are cherished", or "are precious" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "is dear" instead of "are dear"?

No, the correctness depends on the subject. Use "is dear" for singular subjects (e.g., "This memory is dear to me") and "are dear" for plural subjects (e.g., "These memories are dear to me").

How does "are dear" differ from "are important"?

"Are dear" implies a sentimental or emotional connection, while "are important to" simply indicates significance or value. Something can be important without being emotionally cherished.