hold most dear

USAGE SUMMARY

"hold most dear" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you are speaking about something that you value or cherish most in life. Example: My family is the most important thing I hold most dear.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

It is an alien thing that threatens all we hold most dear.

The Guardian

"Civil rights were trampled, and the sociopolitical values we hold most dear were undermined".

The Guardian

Even among the fairy tales we hold most dear, "Cinderella" really delivers.

The New York Times - Books

The things that people hold most dear and, therefore, carry frequently?

The New York Times

KARAOKEAL AMNESIA Most people don't know the complete lyrics to almost any song, particularly the ones they hold most dear.

The New York Times

For Sydney, the ache was about the way that the things we hold most dear always elude us.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

It eventually led them to destroy all the things they said they held most dear".

The New York Times

But of all Coughlin's events, the 100 backstroke is the one she holds most dear.

The New York Times - Sports

But it was Long Island, and particularly Huntington, that he held most dear.

The New York Times

In memory, as in life, he will inspire us to the values he held most dear.

The New York Times

In memory, as in life, she will inspire us to the values she held most dear.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "hold most dear", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being valued and why. Be specific to enhance the emotional impact.

Common error

While appropriate in many contexts, avoid overusing "hold most dear" in formal or business writing. More direct and less emotionally charged language might be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

Hold most dear functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the act of valuing or cherishing something greatly. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, with numerous examples demonstrating its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hold most dear" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that conveys a deep sense of value and emotional connection. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is appropriate for various contexts, ranging from news and media to personal reflections. While its register is generally neutral, it's important to consider the specific context to ensure its appropriateness, avoiding overuse in highly formal settings. Consider using alternatives like "value immensely" or "cherish above all else" to vary your expression while maintaining the intended meaning. Its high frequency and presence in authoritative sources underscore its validity and widespread acceptance in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hold nearest to one's heart

Emphasizes the emotional closeness and personal significance.

value immensely

Highlights the high worth or importance attributed to something.

treasure deeply

Focuses on the emotional value and personal significance.

hold as invaluable

Highlights the irreplaceable worth of something.

cherish above all else

Emphasizes a stronger emotional connection and prioritization.

prize above everything

Stresses the supreme value and prioritization.

hold as paramount

Emphasizes the supreme importance or priority.

deeply appreciate

Highlights gratitude and recognition of value.

hold in high regard

Implies respect and admiration, rather than personal affection.

hold sacred

Implies a religious or deeply spiritual connection.

FAQs

How can I use "hold most dear" in a sentence?

You can use "hold most dear" to describe values, relationships, or principles that are highly cherished. For example, "Freedom is a value we "hold most dear"."

What are some alternatives to "hold most dear"?

Alternatives include phrases like "cherish above all else", "value immensely", or "treasure deeply", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "held most dear" instead of "hold most dear"?

Yes, "held most dear" is the past tense form. Use "held" when referring to something that was valued in the past, while "hold" is used for present or general truths.

What's the difference between "hold most dear" and "hold in high regard"?

"Hold most dear" implies a stronger emotional connection and personal significance, while "hold in high regard" suggests respect and admiration, not necessarily deep affection.