hold them dear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hold them dear" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing affection or valuing someone or something significantly. Example: "In times of hardship, it's important to hold them dear and cherish the memories we have together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Fans often latch on to overachieving teams and hold them dear.

The New York Times - Sports

Our thoughts are with each of them and all those that hold them dear".

The Guardian

"I think we continue to hold to principles of academia, of intellectual engagement, of academic freedom," says Lindkvist, "That we continue to value those and hold them dear while simultaneously thinking of different ways that we can use challenging material in the classroom in a way that students find it accessible, find that they can fully participate in that discussion".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"The framers knew boycotts well and held them dear," he said.

The New York Times

For many young American composers, acquiring the elements of classical craft have become irrelevant, but these Middle Eastern composers are holding them dear.

The New Yorker

I wasn't in love with them, but I held them dear.

Vice

On the last day of Contact I forego more lectures and "intensives," and opt instead to go on Barbara Harris's tour of all the sacred spots in the high desert, the places that make the area such a go-to for the community which holds them dear.

Vice

Why do we hold them so dear?

The Guardian

They're also threatened, unfortunately, by some of the people who claim to hold them most dear.

Forbes

I hope they light them on fire and that they hold them as dear in remembrance as I hold mine.

Huffington Post

"Working in that big-budget arena, with so much at stake, with much-beloved characters that Stan Lee created, people really hold them so dear to them that you don't want to mess up, and I messed up with that third 'Spider-Man,'" Raimi said.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hold them dear" to convey a sense of deep affection or value for individuals, principles, or memories. It's particularly effective in expressing sentimental attachments.

Common error

Avoid using "hold them dear" in highly formal or technical writing where a more objective tone is required. Opt for phrases like "value these principles" or "consider them important" for greater suitability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hold them dear" functions as a verb phrase expressing affection, value, or importance attributed to certain people, principles, or memories. Ludwig provides examples from various sources, showcasing its usage in conveying sentimental attachments.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hold them dear" is used to express strong affection or value for people, principles, or memories. Ludwig's analysis shows that it's grammatically correct and used mainly in news and media contexts. While effective for sentimental expressions, it may be less suitable in formal or technical writing. Consider alternatives like "cherish them" or "treasure them" for similar meanings, and be mindful of the context to ensure the tone is appropriate. Ludwig confirms its validity and provides helpful examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cherish them

Focuses on the act of treasuring and valuing someone or something.

treasure them

Emphasizes the great value and importance of someone or something.

value them highly

Highlights the significant worth attributed to someone or something.

think highly of them

Emphasizes having a very good opinion of someone.

prize them

Implies a sense of deep appreciation and protection.

esteem them

Suggests a formal and respectful admiration.

regard them with affection

Highlights the emotional connection and fondness.

love them dearly

Directly expresses strong love and attachment.

think the world of them

Indicates a very high opinion and strong affection.

have a soft spot for them

Suggests a particular fondness and gentle affection.

FAQs

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

You can use "hold them dear" to express affection or value. For example, "In times of hardship, it's important to hold family and friends dear" or "These are the values we hold dear and must protect".

What are some alternatives to "hold them dear"?

Alternatives include "cherish them", "treasure them", or "value them highly", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "hold them dear" too sentimental for professional writing?

In some professional contexts, "hold them dear" may be too sentimental. Consider using more neutral phrases like "value them" or "consider them important" for a more appropriate tone.

What's the difference between "hold them dear" and "love them dearly"?

"Hold them dear" implies a deep appreciation and value, while "love them dearly" emphasizes strong affection and emotional attachment. The choice depends on the specific emotion you want to express.