holds dearly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "holds dearly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong affection or attachment to someone or something. Example: "She holds dearly the memories of her childhood spent with her grandparents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

This should help fortify a position Parcells holds dearly, considering how valuable Mark Bavaro was during his tenure with the Giants and Ben Coates's role while Parcells was in New England.

The New York Times - Sports

While Smith's attitude to objects is devotional rather than acquisitive ("All doors are open to the believer," she writes, of sitting at a stone table that was once host to Goethe and Schiller), she holds dearly to the things she has.

The New Yorker

It's an EP that truly captures the unparalleled sound that Ambivalent holds dearly to himself, with the chilling melodic riff of "Zafiro" helping to make this latest release on Last Night On Earth a euphoric listening experience like no other.

Vice

The scientific community of this country, I also know, holds dearly to the principle of freedom of scientific enquiry, unencumbered by undue political interference in and direction of science.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

If successful, the lawsuit would upset a principle held dearly by New Jersey's municipalities, that of home rule.

The New York Times

There will be those people who hold dearly prejudicial views but these voices will be qualified by other acts and voices," he said.

Independent

He is held dearly in the memory of his family and friends for his humor, grace, intelligence and selfless involvement in the life of others.

The New York Times

The 5 times I saw him live are memories I hold dearly and inspiration that will never run out.

Vice

Who would be forever young, to dwell always in externals?" What if we could embrace the passage of time and hold dearly our mature wisdom?

Huffington Post

Freedom of religion -- the ability to practice our faith without fear of persecution -- is a basic right that we as Americans hold dearly.

Huffington Post

Loyalty clearly isn't a principle he holds especially dearly.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the emotional intensity you want to convey. "Holds dearly" suggests a deep emotional connection, so it's best used when that's the intended message.

Common error

Avoid using "holds dearly" in contexts that require a more neutral or objective tone. The phrase carries a strong emotional weight and may be inappropriate in formal or professional settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "holds dearly" functions as a verb phrase, where "holds" is the main verb and "dearly" is an adverb modifying the verb. It indicates the manner in which something is held or regarded. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through examples where the phrase conveys strong affection or attachment.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "holds dearly" is a grammatically sound verb phrase used to express strong affection or value. Ludwig AI analysis, based on reliable sources, suggests its register is considered neutral and is suitable for expressing emotional connections in writing. While

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cherishes greatly

Replaces "holds" with "cherishes", emphasizing a feeling of deep affection and care.

treasures deeply

Emphasizes the preciousness of what is being held, using "treasures" instead of "holds".

keeps close to heart

Indicates that something is cherished and remembered with affection, kept in one's thoughts and feelings.

values highly

Uses "values" to indicate the importance or worth placed on something.

is deeply attached to

Highlights the emotional bond and connection with something.

regards fondly

Highlights the affection and warmth associated with the object of holding.

appreciates immensely

Focuses on the recognition and enjoyment of something, expressing profound gratitude.

esteems greatly

Implies a formal and respectful appreciation, using "esteems" to convey high regard.

is very fond of

Uses a more general term to show you like someone or something.

clings to tightly

Suggests a desperate or protective grip, emphasizing the fear of losing something.

FAQs

How can I use "holds dearly" in a sentence?

Use "holds dearly" to express a strong affection or attachment to someone or something. For example, "He "holds dearly" the values his father taught him."

What can I say instead of "holds dearly"?

You can use alternatives like "cherishes greatly", "values highly", or "treasures deeply" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "hold something dearly"?

Yes, "hold something dearly" is grammatically correct. The verb "hold" is transitive, and "dearly" modifies it, indicating how something is held or valued.

What is the difference between "holds dearly" and "is deeply attached to"?

"Holds dearly" implies cherishing and valuing something, whereas "is deeply attached to" suggests a strong emotional bond or connection. The former is more about valuing, the latter about emotional dependence.