darling

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "darling" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a term of endearment to show your affection for someone. For example: "Good morning, darling. I hope you have a wonderful day today."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He's pouring nearly all our money into his darling academies.

The Guardian

Darling, who had asked Osborne after he assumed the leadership of Better Together in 2012 for Treasury back-up, had his ammunition as he joined forces with Dunlop to embark on a final round of discussions ahead of the chancellor's announcement in a speech in Edinburgh on 13 February.

The Guardian

Darling, who had been briefed on the Carney speech, spoke to the shadow chancellor Ed Balls, who agreed to endorse the chancellor's statement on the same day.

The Guardian

Darling and Alexander were adamant that, for all their fears, they made the right decision on the currency.

The Guardian

What is an eight-year-old going to make of that?" The first debate was notable for its unexpected outcome: a Darling victory.

The Guardian

(A vote analysis casts him as one of the top 25 conservative members of the Senate, and Tea Party darling and intrastate rival Paul is at number 19).

The Guardian - Opinion

Smyth was said to have replied in an exaggerated drawl: "You ain't seen harassment yet, darling".

The Guardian

He refused to say whether he thought other senior Labour figures, including Hazel Blears, Geoff Hoon and Jack Straw, should stand down after being accused of similar financial irregularities in their expenses claims as Darling.

The Guardian

After a bit of shadow boxing in which they and Osborne bragged about their credentials to do the job – tenacity (Darling), energy (Osborne), getting it right (Cable) – the debate quickly turned to the shadow chancellor's planned cut in national insurance contributions.

The Guardian

That said, the one-time Republican presidential hopeful who wasn't Sarah Palin but who was a darling of the Tea Party has had some outstanding moments in her seven years in the national spotlight.

The Guardian

Melbourne couple Darren and Deanne Jolly won the 10th series of The Block, taking home $935,000 after their Darling Street, South Yarra, apartment sold for a record $2.29m.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience and relationship when using "darling". It is generally inappropriate in formal or professional settings unless a close, established relationship exists.

Common error

Avoid using "darling" in professional or formal communication. It can be perceived as unprofessional, overly familiar, or even condescending by those who do not know you well. Opt for neutral terms like "sir", "madam", or simply use the person's name.

Linguistic Context

The word "darling" functions primarily as a term of endearment, used to express affection or fondness towards someone. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's a common way to address someone you care about. It can also act as an adjective, meaning 'dear' or 'cherished'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

32%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "darling" is a versatile term of endearment with primary function to express affection. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct and well-supported. While its frequency is "very common", it's important to consider the context and relationship before using it, as it can be inappropriate in formal settings. Alternatives such as "my dear" or "sweetheart" may be suitable depending on the situation. The primary contexts where "darling" appears are News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science, indicating a relatively broad range of applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

my dear

A classic term of endearment, slightly more formal than "darling".

sweetheart

Another common term of endearment, implying affection and fondness.

my love

A more intense term of endearment, expressing deep affection.

honey

An informal and affectionate term, often used in casual conversation.

dearie

An old-fashioned, folksy term of endearment, less common today.

precious

Emphasizes the high value and fondness one has for the person addressed.

beloved

A formal and deeply affectionate term, indicating cherished status.

treasure

Implies that the person is highly valued and cherished.

love of my life

A very strong expression of love and devotion.

my everything

Expresses that the person is the most important thing in one's life.

FAQs

How can I use "darling" in a sentence?

"Darling" can be used as a term of endearment at the beginning or end of a sentence, like "Good morning, darling!" or "Don't worry, darling, everything will be alright."

What's a more formal alternative to "darling"?

In formal settings, it's best to avoid "darling" altogether. Consider using the person's name or a title such as "sir" or "madam" instead.

When is it inappropriate to use the word "darling"?

It is generally inappropriate to use "darling" in professional settings, with strangers, or when addressing individuals in positions of authority. It's best reserved for close relationships.

What are some other affectionate nicknames like "darling"?

Alternatives to "darling" include "sweetheart", "honey", "my dear", and "my love", though the appropriateness of each depends on context and relationship.