would not dare

USAGE SUMMARY

'would not dare' is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to indicate that someone is unwilling to do something because they are afraid or intimidated. For example: "He was so scared of his professor he said he would not dare to ask her a question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

District principals would not dare.

The New York Times

They would not dare".

The New York Times

"We would not dare.

The New York Times

I would not dare to.

The Guardian - Opinion

Many would not dare contemplate the alternative.

The Guardian - Sport

It would not dare to treat China this way.

The Economist

But they would not dare say so in public.

The Economist

And Wuji would not dare defy his father to help.

The New Yorker

But they would not dare to play him.

The Guardian - Sport

Sometimes you would not dare make it up.

The Guardian - Sport

He said he would not dare miss one.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "would not dare" to express a strong disinclination to do something due to fear, respect, or potential negative consequences. Ensure the context makes the reason for the reluctance clear.

Common error

Avoid using "would not dare" in casual conversation where simpler expressions like "wouldn't" or "won't" suffice. It can sound overly formal or theatrical in everyday situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "would not dare" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing a strong sense of unwillingness or lack of courage to perform a certain action. It conveys a feeling of fear, respect, or awareness of potential negative consequences, as illustrated by examples found by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Sport

15%

Opinion

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "would not dare" is a commonly used phrase to express a strong reluctance to do something, often due to fear or respect. Ludwig confirms it's grammatically correct and provides numerous examples from reliable sources, primarily in news and media. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to formal contexts, and you should ensure the reason for reluctance is clear. Consider using alternatives like "wouldn't dream of" or "would refrain from" for varied expression, and avoid overuse in casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wouldn't dream of

This alternative conveys a stronger sense of unwillingness, implying the action is unthinkable or highly inappropriate.

wouldn't presume to

Indicates a lack of audacity or the recognition of not being qualified or entitled to do something.

wouldn't risk

Focuses on the potential negative consequences or dangers associated with the action.

wouldn't consider

Focuses on the lack of consideration for the action, suggesting it's not even a possibility in one's mind.

wouldn't venture to

Indicates a reluctance to express an opinion or take a risk, suggesting a cautious approach.

would hesitate to

Highlights the hesitation and reluctance involved, suggesting a cautious approach.

wouldn't attempt

Highlights a lack of confidence or belief in one's ability to succeed in the action.

would refrain from

Emphasizes the deliberate act of holding back or abstaining from doing something.

would avoid

Suggests a proactive effort to steer clear of the action or situation.

would shun

Implies a strong aversion to the action, suggesting it's something to be avoided at all costs.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "would not dare" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "wouldn't presume to" or "would refrain from". These options convey a sense of respect or caution.

What's a more casual alternative to "would not dare"?

In informal settings, you can use options like "wouldn't dream of" or simply "wouldn't". These are less intense and more appropriate for everyday conversation.

Is it grammatically correct to say "wouldn't dare to"?

Yes, "wouldn't dare to" is grammatically correct and adds emphasis. However, the "to" is often omitted for brevity without affecting the meaning. For example, both "I would not dare to ask" and "I would not dare ask" are acceptable.

In what situations is "would not dare" most appropriate?

"Would not dare" is best used when you want to emphasize a strong feeling of reluctance or fear to do something, especially when there might be consequences or social repercussions. It's common in news reports, opinion pieces, and more formal contexts.