dearest folks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dearest folks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used as a term of endearment when addressing a group of people you care about, often in a personal or affectionate context. Example: "To my dearest folks, I hope this letter finds you well and happy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

When this flaming rara avis swooped down on Finney County, Kansas, the Deweys, those "Dearest Folks" and "Honey Hearts," had offered him a perch, whereas others must have been more inclined, at least at first, to greet him with a baseball bat.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

She received a letter saying "Dear Folks, I had to wright this so I could get into breakfast tomorrow".

The New Yorker

"Dear Folks," one from January , 1945 begins, "Everything is coming along fine here & I do hope the same thing goes for all you swell people at home".

The New Yorker

dear folks.

Vice

But, dear football folks, this town doesn't throw parades for just showing up.

Los Angeles Times

Poor, dear simple folk!" Darwin mused wryly afterwards, but he was hurt by attacks from scholars he had once respected.

The Guardian

His memory is held dear among ordinary folk in the northwestern extreme of Ireland where he was born.

The Economist

However, this playful PSA from our favorite folks from the Dear White People film hitting theaters this fall debunks this myth.

Huffington Post

ALSO: The pope, the pill and the court Another misguided GOP attack on Obamacare Dear media: In covering transgender folks, remember, they're people too Follow Kerry Cavanaugh on Twitter @kerrycavan and Google+.

Los Angeles Times

Microlending and financial literacy (now I'm going to upset people who are wonderful folks and a few dear friends) — what is this really about?

The New York Times

Dear Donald, "It's just words, folks.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dearest folks" to add a personal and affectionate touch to your writing, particularly when addressing a group of people you are close to. For example, start a letter or email with "Dearest folks, I hope this message finds you well."

Common error

Avoid using "dearest folks" in highly formal or professional settings where a more neutral or respectful tone is required. Opt for alternatives like "esteemed colleagues" or "valued team members" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dearest folks" functions as a term of endearment or a form of address, typically used when communicating with people the speaker feels close to or has affection for. Ludwig confirms this phrase is correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dearest folks" is a grammatically correct phrase used to address a group of people with affection. As Ludwig confirms, it's best suited for informal contexts, such as personal letters or communications with close friends and family. While not exceedingly common, it appears primarily in news and media sources. To avoid misusing it, remember that it is not suitable for formal business environments where more professional language is needed. Consider using alternatives like "beloved friends" or "cherished family" depending on the intended audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beloved friends

Emphasizes affection and close relationship, suitable for addressing friends.

cherished family

Specifically denotes family members who are deeply valued.

dear companions

Highlights companionship and fondness.

esteemed colleagues

Suitable for professional contexts, indicating respect and high regard.

valued acquaintances

Less intimate, appropriate for people you know and appreciate but aren't necessarily close to.

respected individuals

Formal and distant, emphasizing respect over affection.

good people

A general term for kind and moral people.

honest citizens

Highlights integrity and civic duty.

fine community

Refers to a group of people living in the same area or having particular characteristics in common.

regular joes

Informal way to refer to ordinary, average people.

FAQs

How can I use "dearest folks" in a sentence?

You can use "dearest folks" as a term of endearment when addressing a group of people you care about. For example: "Dearest folks, thank you for all your support."

What's a good alternative to "dearest folks"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "beloved friends", "cherished family", or "dear companions".

Is "dearest folks" too informal for business communication?

Yes, "dearest folks" is generally too informal for business communication. Use more professional terms like "esteemed colleagues" or "valued team members" instead.

When is it appropriate to use "dearest folks"?

It is appropriate to use "dearest folks" in personal letters, emails to close friends and family, or other contexts where a warm, affectionate tone is suitable.