dear fellows

USAGE SUMMARY

'dear fellows' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is a polite way to address a group of people, usually people that are close to you, such as colleagues, friends, or family. For example: "Dear fellows, it was so nice to see all of you at brunch today."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Dear fellows, today I am focusing on women's rights and girls' education because they are suffering the most.

The Washington Post

"My dear fellows," said Rocky Saggoo, the founder and chief instructor, cutting a striking figure in nerdy glasses and an air of studied cool, "start taking interest in politics if you want to change this country".

The New York Times

McClellan was greatly heartened at the display, writing to his wife, "The dear fellows cheer me as of old as they march to certain death & I feel prouder of them than ever".

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

I texted him: "My dear fellow.

Independent

I'm sorry, my dear fellow".

The New York Times

My dear fellow Taiwanese, we did it".

The Guardian

I should say not, dear fellow.

The Guardian

Now, my dear fellow fat people.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Liszt, my dear fellow!" says a fellow composer.

The Guardian - Film

"Very nice, my dear fellow, very nice," said Duveen.

The New Yorker

My dear fellow, we all put our heads down, don't we?

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dear fellows" to create a sense of camaraderie and shared identity within a group you are addressing, especially in settings where a touch of warmth and tradition is appreciated.

Common error

Avoid using "dear fellows" in modern, informal contexts, as it can sound stuffy or out of touch. Opt for phrases like "hey everyone" or "hi team" in more casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dear fellows" functions as a vocative phrase, directly addressing a group of people. Ludwig AI confirms this with examples of it being used to initiate a speech or letter, creating a personal connection with the audience.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dear fellows" is a grammatically sound phrase used to address a group, fostering a sense of warmth. Ludwig AI validates this use. While its register leans toward moderately formal, it can come across as old-fashioned in contemporary informal settings. Primarily found in News & Media sources, this phrase aims to create connection, so consider the context and audience carefully to ensure its appropriate usage. When a more contemporary tone is desired, consider the list of alternative phrases provided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

my dear friends

A slightly more intimate version, implying a personal connection.

my good friends

A warmer, more personal way to address close acquaintances.

brothers and sisters

Implies a close-knit community or shared belief system.

esteemed colleagues

A more formal way to address a group of professionals.

respected peers

Emphasizes the professional standing and mutual respect among the addressed.

beloved companions

Suggests a deep affection or bond between individuals.

valued associates

Highlights the importance and worth of the individuals within a business or professional setting.

gentlefolk

A slightly archaic and humorous way to address people, implying a refined or upper-class status.

friends and countrymen

Evokes a sense of national unity and camaraderie, often used in speeches or addresses.

ladies and gentlemen

A formal and traditional way to address a mixed audience.

FAQs

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

You can use "dear fellows" to address a group of people you know well, for example: "Dear fellows, thank you for attending the meeting." It's often used to create a sense of warmth and tradition.

What are some alternatives to "dear fellows"?

Alternatives to "dear fellows" include "my good friends", "esteemed colleagues", or simply addressing the group by name depending on the context.

Is "dear fellows" appropriate for all audiences?

No, "dear fellows" is generally not appropriate for all audiences. It's best suited for groups with whom you have a personal connection or in formal settings where traditional language is acceptable. Consider your audience and the setting before using it.

What is the difference between "dear fellows" and "ladies and gentlemen"?

"Dear fellows" is more informal and intimate compared to "ladies and gentlemen", which is a more formal and traditional way to address a mixed audience. "Dear fellows" suggests a closer relationship with the people being addressed.