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dare

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dare someone (to do something)

to challenge someone to do something. Sally dared Jane to race her to the corner. You wouldn't do that, would you? I dare you.

You wouldn't dare (to do something)!

an exclamation that shows disbelief about something that the speaker has stated an intention of doing. Bill: I'm going to leave school. Tom: You wouldn't dare leave! Bill: Be quiet or I'll slap you. Jane: You wouldn't dare to slap me!

don't you dare

(spoken)

I will be very angry at you if you do "I'm going to tell Billy what you said about him." "Don't you dare! "

See also: dare

how dare you do something

(spoken)

I am very surprised and shocked by what you are doing How dare you show up at my wedding?

Usage notes: usually shows that you think someone's behavior is very wrong: How dare he accuse us of lying!

See also: dare, how

I dare say

(slightly formal)

I am quite certain Oh, I dare say Caroline and I will find some way to fill the time while you go off shopping.

See also: dare, say

I dare say

1. I venture to assert or affirm, as in I dare say my point of view will be heard. [c. 1300]

2. Also, I daresay. I presume or assume to be likely, as in I daresay you'll be invited. This usage is more common in Britain than in America. [Mid-1700s]

See also: dare, say