dare

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!

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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! "

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: 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: say