dear lord

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dear lord" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as an expression of surprise, frustration, or exasperation, often in informal contexts. Example: "Dear lord, I can't believe how much work I have to do this weekend!"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

Dear lord.

The Guardian - Sport

"Dear Lord," muttered Pauline McLyn.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Dear lord, I am scared of her.

The Guardian - Books

Because, dear lord, Goodnight Moon is a creepy book.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

HUDSON: Oh god … oh god … Please dear Lord, stop!

The Guardian - Film

But then came the command encore, John Coltrane's "Dear Lord".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

And what are you even writing?!" — Mark Twain Dearr lord, he's transcribing everything I'm saying.

The New Yorker

STANCIK--Eleanor A.,Dear Lord, we had a marvelous life together!

The New York Times

Dear Lord, Grant me patience NOW!

HuffPost

Dear Lord, can it get any worse?

The Economist

● ● Dear Lord, please make me want You.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dear lord" sparingly in formal writing; consider alternatives like "good heavens" or "oh my goodness" to maintain a professional tone.

Common error

Avoid using "dear lord" in academic papers or business reports. This expression is better suited for informal conversations or creative writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dear lord" primarily functions as an interjection, expressing a sudden emotion such as surprise, frustration, or supplication. As Ludwig indicates, it is a common expression. Examples show its use in reactions to unexpected or overwhelming situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dear lord" is a common interjection used to express a range of emotions from surprise and frustration to supplication. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and usable in written English, primarily in informal contexts. While prevalent in news and media, its use in formal or professional settings should be approached with caution. Consider alternatives like "good heavens" or "oh my goodness" for more formal tones. The prevalence of authoritative sources like The Guardian and The New York Times using the phrase, often in direct quotes, showcases its integration into everyday language, further solidifying its status as a widely understood and accepted expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Good heavens

A more mild expression of surprise or shock, lacking the religious overtone.

Oh my god

A common expression of surprise, frustration, or disbelief; more direct and potentially more offensive to some.

Sweet jesus

An exclamation of surprise or frustration with a strong religious connotation.

Lord have mercy

A plea for divine compassion, often used in situations of distress or suffering; more explicitly religious.

Goodness gracious

An exclamation of surprise or shock, somewhat old-fashioned but still in use; avoids religious references.

For goodness sake

Expresses frustration or impatience; less direct than "dear lord" but conveys a similar sentiment.

Good grief

An exclamation of disappointment or dismay.

Heavens to betsy

An antiquated exclamation of surprise; more lighthearted and less serious than "dear lord".

Oh dear

A mild expression of dismay or concern; less intense than "dear lord".

My word

An expression of surprise or shock; more formal and reserved than "dear lord".

FAQs

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

"Dear lord" is typically used as an interjection to express surprise, frustration, or exasperation. For example, "Dear lord, I can't believe how much work I have to do!"

What can I say instead of "dear lord"?

You can use alternatives like "good heavens", "oh my god", or "goodness gracious" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "dear lord"?

It is appropriate to use "dear lord" in informal settings when expressing strong emotion, such as surprise, frustration, or exasperation. However, it should be avoided in formal or professional contexts.

Is "dear lord" offensive?

While "dear lord" is not inherently offensive, its religious connotation may be inappropriate or unwelcome in some contexts. Consider your audience and the setting when deciding whether to use this phrase.