Dare (Сметь, осмеливаться)

The verb Dare is unique in English because it can function both as a main verb (lexical verb) and as a modal verb. This dual nature means its grammatical behavior changes depending on how it's used, affecting its conjugation, negation, and question formation.

The core meaning of "dare" is "to be brave enough to do something," "to challenge," or "to provoke."

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Формы Dare

1. "Dare" as a Main Verb (Lexical Verb)

When "dare" acts as a main verb, it means "to challenge," "to have the courage to do something," or "to risk." It behaves like a regular verb:

• Он изменяет форму для третьего лица единственного числа настоящего времени (dares).
• It uses "do/does/did" for questions and negatives.
• It is followed by a "to-infinitive."

2. "Dare" as a Modal Verb

When "dare" functions as a modal verb, it is typically used in negative or interrogative sentences and means "to be brave enough." It behaves like a true modal verb:

• It does not change form (no "-s" for third person singular).
• It does not use "do/does/did" for questions and negatives.
• It is followed directly by the base form of the main verb (without "to").
• Это использование более формальное или литературное, часто встречается в устойчивых выражениях.

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Использование Dare

The usage of "dare" revolves around the concept of courage, challenge, or provocation, with nuances depending on its main or modal function.

1. Выражение смелости / отваги (Основной и модальный глагол)

Обе формы могут выражать наличие смелости сделать что-либо, или ее отсутствие.

• Основной глагол: Фокусируется на акте осмеливания или наличии смелости.
  • She dares to speak her mind in public.
  • He doesn't dare to argue with his boss.
• Модальный глагол: Более формальный или выразительный, особенно в отрицаниях.
  • I daren't look down from the cliff. (У меня нет смелости)
  • He dare not confront her.

2. Вызов (Основной глагол)

When "dare" means "to challenge someone to do something," it usually functions as a main verb.

• I dare you to jump over that fence.
• She dared him to tell the truth.

3. Expressing Indignation / Strong Disapproval (Modal "How dare...")

The fixed phrase "How dare..." is a common modal use to express strong indignation or shock at someone's impudence or lack of respect.

• How dare you speak to me like that!
• How dare she accuse me of lying!

4. Условные предложения (Часто модальный глагол)

"Dare" can be used in conditional sentences to imply courage or the risk involved.

• If you dare to try, you might succeed. (Основной глагол)
• If he dare go, he will face consequences. (Модальный, формальный)

5. Fixed Phrases (Modal "Dare say")

The phrase "I dare say" (or "I daresay") is a somewhat archaic modal use meaning "I suppose" or "I imagine it is probable."

• I dare say it will rain later.
• I daresay you're right.

Ключевые различия в использовании:

• Утвердительные: "Dare" as a main verb is common (e.g., He dares to dream big.). "Dare" as a modal is very rare in the affirmative (e.g., *He dare dream big* is incorrect).
• Отрицания/Вопросы: Both main verb ("don't dare to") and modal ("daren't") forms are used, but the modal form is more common in formal or fixed expressions, and often conveys a stronger sense of not having the courage.
• Следующий глагол: Main verb "dare" uses "to-infinitive" (dare to do). Modal "dare" uses bare infinitive (dare do).
  • You don't dare to oppose him. (Основной глагол)
  • You daren't oppose him. (Модальный глагол)