become a dear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become a dear" is not commonly used in written English and may be considered awkward or unclear.
It could be used in a context where someone is expressing a desire for someone to become dear to them or to develop a close relationship. Example: "Over time, I hope you will become a dear friend to me."

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

I've become a Dear Abby for others in relationships with large age gaps.

The Washington Post

Among his stars were Macklin, Woffington, and Kitty Clive, the only actress of whom he was said to be afraid, but one who was to become a dear friend.

Encyclopedia Britannica

You have become a dear friend and I am grateful to have you in my life". Kelly's camp replied that the two notes were written in 2009 and 2012 and that Kelly has questioned O'Reilly's behavior more recently.

The Washington Post

Our landlord, Dr. Ángel del Parral, a chain-smoking seventy-something cardiologist who has become a dear friend, thought that this earthquake felt stronger than the one in 1985.

The New Yorker

This mom had become a dear friend.

Huffington Post

We felt, just like Quinn Sullivan, he had mentored us in the art of Blues' guitar and become a dear friend.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

She became a dear friend, mentor, protector, confidant, big sister.

Columbia University

A few years ago I visited Jane and with time she became a dear friend.

The Guardian - Arts

We thank Kellena Bedford who started out as an aide to Eli and became a dear friend.

The New York Times

It seemed as if she never really got to know anyone before they became "a dear friend".

The New Yorker

The casting director, who later became a dear friend, recognised something was wrong and called my agent.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

If you want to express a modern tone, consider using alternatives like "grow close" or "become good friends" as they might sound more natural in contemporary conversation.

Common error

Avoid using "become a dear" in very informal settings, as it can sound overly sentimental or old-fashioned. Choose more casual alternatives to better suit the tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become a dear" functions primarily as a predicate nominative when describing the evolution of a relationship. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in expressing how someone has transitioned into a cherished friend or acquaintance over time. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is acceptable but not the most common.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

6.666666666666667%

Formal & Business

6.666666666666667%

Wiki

6.666666666666667%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "become a dear" describes the evolution of a close, affectionate relationship, functioning as a predicate nominative. While grammatically sound, it might sound slightly formal in modern conversation. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's an acceptable phrase found in news, academic, and encyclopedic contexts, but alternatives like "grow close" may be preferable for contemporary usage. Understanding the subtle nuance of formality will help ensure its appropriate application. While not incorrect, be mindful of your audience and your setting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grow close to

Focuses on the increasing proximity and intimacy in a relationship.

grow fond of

Highlights the development of affection over time.

develop an affection for

Emphasizes the active development of feelings.

become attached to

Indicates a strong emotional bond has formed.

win the affection of

Suggests effort is involved in gaining someone's fondness.

endear oneself to

Focuses on actions taken to make someone fond of you.

find favor with

Implies gaining approval and liking.

gain the love of

Suggests a deeper, more profound connection.

cultivate a fondness for

Highlights the intentional nurturing of affectionate feelings.

warm to

Describes a gradual increase in liking someone.

FAQs

What does it mean to "become a dear" friend?

To "become a dear" friend implies developing a close, affectionate relationship with someone over time. It suggests a bond built on trust, shared experiences, and mutual appreciation.

Are there more modern alternatives to "become a dear"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "become close", "grow close", or simply "become good friends" depending on the context. These options often sound more contemporary.

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

You might say, "Over the years, my neighbor has "become a dear" friend, always there to lend a helping hand." Or, "Through our shared struggles, she has "become a dear" to me."

Is "become a dear" grammatically correct?

Yes, "become a dear" is grammatically correct, but it can sound somewhat formal or old-fashioned. While not incorrect, be mindful of the audience and context in which you use it.