dare to consider

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dare to consider" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when encouraging someone to think about or contemplate something that may be challenging or unconventional. Example: "I dare to consider the possibility that we can change the world with our ideas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

By then, Becknell and Brees and the Saints fan base could dare to consider the possibilities.

The New York Times - Sports

Many of those old-school pinball machines used to display a caveat should anyone dare to consider a wager on a game: For Amusement Purposes Only.

The New York Times

"This case has in whole or in part become characterised by spin, smears and threats … In the last fortnight we have had a series of highly questionable dossiers – threatening almost biblical consequences if we dare to consider a future outside of the European Union.

The Guardian

Evolution of the heterogeneous architectures and tools has allowed designing complex systems that we have not even dare to consider few years ago.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

I say that he told me that he had not intended to kill her, just teach her a lesson so that no girl from the family would dare to consider eloping again.

BBC

That's not to say your boss is likely to launch into a tirade at the suggestion that you dare to consider working outside the Ivory Tower, but you should recognize that the notion of a nontraditional career may come as a bit of a surprise.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Briefly, tantalisingly, Chelsea dared to consider inducing another late Watford implosion but it would be the champions who unravelled.

The Guardian - Sport

Though they grew close managing their operations, both were in other relationships, and neither dared to consider romantic feelings for the other, lest it jeopardize the project.

The New York Times

I dared to consider that perhaps Bageye should not be damned permanently; that he, too, may have been wounded in that house of terror, and was a candidate for compassion.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I began to wonder about life again -- to ask "What if?" about possibilities I had never dared to consider before.

Huffington Post

Before embarking, he dares to consider whether the architect might still have a say in all of this density.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dare to consider" when you want to encourage someone to contemplate an idea that might be challenging, unconventional, or even frightening. It adds a layer of bravery and willingness to explore new possibilities.

Common error

While "dare to consider" is grammatically correct, overusing it in excessively formal or academic writing can make your prose sound theatrical or melodramatic. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "consider", "explore", or "examine" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dare to consider" functions as an infinitive phrase used to introduce a thought or idea that may be challenging or unconventional. As Ludwig AI confirms, it encourages contemplation of possibilities that might otherwise be avoided.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Science & Research

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "dare to consider" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that encourages the exploration of potentially challenging or unconventional ideas. As Ludwig AI points out, it suggests a willingness to step outside of one's comfort zone and engage in critical thinking. While relatively uncommon, its presence in reputable news and media outlets signifies its appropriateness in various writing contexts. When considering alternatives, options like "venture to think about" or "have the courage to think" offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have the courage to think

Highlights the courage needed to consider something, providing a more direct substitute.

be bold enough to consider

Uses "be bold enough" to convey a similar sense of courage and willingness to explore an idea.

venture to think about

Replaces "dare" with "venture", softening the sense of boldness or risk.

be so brave as to contemplate

Emphasizes bravery and contemplation, making it a more descriptive alternative.

have the audacity to contemplate

Substitutes "dare" with "have the audacity", intensifying the sense of boldness and potential impropriety.

muster the nerve to contemplate

Focuses on gathering the necessary courage to contemplate something potentially daunting.

presume to think about

Replaces "dare" with "presume", adding a hint of arrogance or overconfidence.

take the liberty of considering

Replaces "dare" with "take the liberty", suggesting a degree of freedom or permission.

entertain the idea of

Offers a more neutral and less challenging way of expressing consideration.

feel inclined to consider

Expresses a personal leaning towards considering something, reducing the sense of challenge.

FAQs

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

You can use "dare to consider" to introduce a thought or idea that requires courage or boldness to explore. For example, "I "dare to consider" that we can change the world with our ideas" or "Few "dare to consider" the implications of such a radical policy."

What does "dare to consider" imply?

"Dare to consider" implies a willingness to explore ideas that might be challenging, unconventional, or even frightening. It suggests a level of courage and a willingness to step outside of one's comfort zone.

Which is more appropriate, "dare to consider" or "consider"?

"Consider" is more neutral and generally applicable in a wider range of situations. "Dare to consider" adds an element of boldness or risk, suggesting that the topic at hand is potentially challenging or controversial. Use "dare to consider" when you want to emphasize the courage required to think about something.

What are some alternatives to "dare to consider"?

Some alternatives to "dare to consider" include "venture to think about", "have the courage to think", or "be bold enough to consider". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.