dear citizens

USAGE SUMMARY

'dear citizens' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to address a group of citizens, for instance in a letter addressed to a city's population or in a speech. Example: Dear citizens of Springfield, I am pleased to announce that a new library is being built in our town.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

"Dear citizens!

The Guardian

As protestors walked through Pushkin Square, a policeman with a megaphone warned: "Dear citizens, be careful, there are steps ahead".

The Economist

Do not be confused, dear citizens and students: the state still believes that it is important to learn foreign languages and culture before graduation.

The New York Times

"Thank you dear citizens," the Chancellor writes, "You have made Germany the country that has best overcome the global economic crisis".

Independent

Dear citizens of America, On behalf of my fellow countrymen in Britain, I'm writing to express my dismay at the way your presidential election race has turned out.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Dear citizens, the nation lost one of the bravest men, one of the wisest men, a man who was known for his stances and was human,"' the song went.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

A sign on the shelters proclaims: 'Dear citizen, this bus station has been set up by the Homeland Command and the Defence Ministry for the protection and convenience of residents and visitors.'.

Huffington Post

Dear, dear, dear.

Independent

A group of 172 economists has abandoned the customary solemnity with which Germans wear academic titles and published a juicy open letter to their "dear fellow citizens", warning that the new ESM rules that Mrs Merkel accepted in Brussels were "wrong" and spelled doom.

The Economist

In his own open letter, addressed "Dear Fellow Citizens," Cordileone said late Monday that church teachings compel him to respect the dignity of all human beings much as those who wrote to him implored him to do.

Los Angeles Times

In a way, historical imperative played out in the mixed reaction to the new Reid building – a modern Tetris puzzle of glass blocks criticised by some as an unworthy neighbour – and concerns for the welfare of The Mac as a dear, aged citizen.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dear citizens" to address a community in formal communications, such as letters, speeches, or public announcements, when a respectful and somewhat affectionate tone is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "dear citizens" in casual conversation or informal settings; it can sound stilted or overly formal. Opt for a more relaxed greeting like "hello everyone" or "friends".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dear citizens" functions as a salutation or opening address. It is used to directly address a group of people who are members of a particular community or nation. Ludwig AI validates this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dear citizens" serves as a respectful and formal way to address a community. According to Ludwig AI, this usage is grammatically correct and applicable in written English, fitting contexts like public addresses and community announcements. Predominantly found in news and media, the phrase strikes a balance between formality and personal connection. Alternatives include "honorable citizens" or "fellow citizens", each carrying a slightly different nuance. Remember to reserve "dear citizens" for appropriate settings, avoiding overly casual scenarios where it could seem out of place.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Fellow citizens

Stresses equality and shared identity.

Valued citizens

Underlines the importance of the group to the community.

Respected citizens

Indicates a general acknowledgement of worth and dignity.

Honorable citizens

Emphasizes respect and formality more strongly.

Esteemed citizens

Highlights the value and respect held for the group.

Distinguished citizens

Acknowledges the prominence and accomplishments of the addressees.

Beloved citizens

Expresses affection and endearment, suggesting a closer relationship.

Ladies and gentlemen

Offers a formal and respectful salutation.

Good people

Uses a more general and informal tone.

Friends

Represents a familiar and intimate address.

FAQs

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

You can use "dear citizens" to begin a formal address, such as "Dear citizens, I am writing to inform you about upcoming road closures."

What's a more formal alternative to "dear citizens"?

A more formal alternative would be "honorable citizens" or "esteemed citizens".

When is it appropriate to use "dear citizens"?

It's appropriate for formal announcements, letters addressed to the community, and public speeches when you want to convey respect and some level of personal connection.

What are some less formal ways to address a community?

Less formal options include "hello everyone", "friends", or simply addressing the group by their location, such as "residents of Springfield".