dare to read

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dare to read" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to encourage someone to take the initiative to read something, often implying that it may be challenging or thought-provoking. Example: "If you think you can handle the truth, then dare to read this book."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Should Cameron dare to read the editorials he will find them unrelentingly critical, regardless of their own stance on the EU.

The Guardian

Even the cancellation marks on envelopes and the sales receipts given by postal employees carry the address of the special Web site, along with a quotation from Adams: "Let us dare to read, think, speak and write".

The New York Times

Whatever suspense the play has hinges on two questions: Will the woman, who has recognized the novelist, dare to read his latest book (also titled "The Unexpected Man") in his presence?

The New York Times

And then Mr. Bloom lards them over with a polemic against all critics who dare to read Shakespeare with the politics and ideologies of his age -- and ours -- in mind.

The New York Times - Arts

That is not enough to read the Torah in public, if there were anywhere in public they would dare to read it, and too few to recite a proper Kaddish for the dead.

The New York Times

Let us dare to read, think, speak and write.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

He admitted that he hadn't dared to read his Amazon reviews.

The New Yorker

They dared to read the weather pages and register that the world their businesses inhabit is trembling from environmental damage.

The Guardian

It wasn't the content of the newspaper Douglass was reading that was the problem – it was that he, a slave, dared to read it.

The Guardian - Tech

Where the public announcer had not dared to read out Walter Mazzarri's name toward the end, he shouted Mancini's three times.

The Guardian - Sport

Almost twenty years went by before I dared to read it a second time, and my judgment then — untempered by compassion — was even less indulgent.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dare to read" to encourage readers to engage with content that might be challenging, controversial, or require critical thinking. For example, "If you're ready to question your assumptions, dare to read this article."

Common error

Avoid using "dare to read" in situations where reading is a routine or expected activity. It's more appropriate when there's an element of risk, challenge, or unconventionality involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dare to read" primarily functions as an imperative construction, urging or challenging someone to engage with a text. It uses 'dare' as a modal verb, indicating boldness or risk-taking. As Ludwig indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

14%

Science

14%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Science & Research

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dare to read" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that challenges or invites someone to engage with a text, often implying that the reading material may be challenging or require courage. Ludwig's analysis confirms the phrase's correctness and usability. It is frequently found in news and media, as well as encyclopedic contexts. While "dare to read" is generally neutral in tone, it is best used when there is an element of risk or unconventionality involved, not just for routine reading. Alternatives include "have the courage to read" or "be bold enough to read". Overall, "dare to read" is a versatile and effective way to encourage open-mindedness and critical thinking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have the courage to read

Emphasizes the bravery needed to engage with the material.

be brave enough to read

Similar to "have the courage to read", but with a slightly different nuance.

be bold enough to read

Highlights the audacity or fearlessness in approaching the text.

venture to read

Suggests a willingness to take a risk or explore something unknown through reading.

take the risk of reading

Focuses on the potential consequences or challenges involved in reading.

have the audacity to read

Highlights the boldness or impudence of engaging with the content.

be so bold as to read

Similar to "have the audacity to read", but more formal.

dare to peruse

Replaces "read" with a more formal synonym, suggesting careful examination.

make an effort to read

Focuses on the willingness to invest time and energy in reading.

try reading

Simple encouragement to engage with the material.

FAQs

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

You can use "dare to read" to challenge or invite someone to engage with a text that might be difficult or controversial. For example, "I "dare you to read" this and tell me it didn't change your perspective".

What are some alternatives to "dare to read"?

Alternatives include phrases like "have the courage to read", "be bold enough to read", or "venture to read", which all suggest a degree of challenge or risk associated with reading.

Is it grammatically correct to say "dare to read"?

Yes, "dare to read" is grammatically correct. The verb "dare" is followed by the infinitive "to read". Ludwig confirms that it's a correct and usable phrase.

When is it appropriate to use "dare to read"?

It's appropriate to use "dare to read" when you want to convey that the act of reading requires courage, open-mindedness, or a willingness to confront challenging ideas. It's less suitable for routine reading activities.