informal2K

UK//əʊ dɪə//US//oʊ dɪr//

Meaning of Oh dear

An expression used to show concern or disappointment.

In simple words: An expression of concern or disappointment.

Oh dear in a sentence

  • When I heard about the accident, I just said, 'Oh dear.'
  • 'Oh dear,' she sighed when she saw the messy room.
  • He dropped the cake, and all I could say was, 'Oh dear!'
  • Oh dear, I forgot my friend's birthday again!
  • As he tripped, the onlookers gasped, 'Oh dear!'

How to use Oh dear

Used when something unfortunate happens. Appropriate in casual conversation but may be too informal for professional contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone expression

Memory hint

Imagine a worried grandmother saying 'Oh dear!' when something goes wrong.

Related words

Collocations with Oh dear

  • say oh dear
  • oh dear me
  • oh dearie me

Synonyms for Oh dear

  • oh no
  • my goodness
  • oh dearie
  • alas
  • poor thing

Common mistakes with Oh dear

  • Used in overly serious situations where a different phrase is needed.
  • Misused as a phrase of excitement instead of concern.

Oh dear appears in

Oh dear in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Oh dear

What does Oh dear mean?

An expression of concern or disappointment.

What is the definition of Oh dear?

An expression used to show concern or disappointment.

How do you use Oh dear in a sentence?

When I heard about the accident, I just said, 'Oh dear.'

Can you give another example of Oh dear?

'Oh dear,' she sighed when she saw the messy room.

What are synonyms for Oh dear?

Common alternatives include oh no, my goodness, oh dearie, alas, poor thing.

What words go with Oh dear?

It commonly pairs with say oh dear, oh dear me, oh dearie me.

What are common mistakes when using Oh dear?

Used in overly serious situations where a different phrase is needed. Misused as a phrase of excitement instead of concern.

How do you pronounce Oh dear?

US: //oʊ dɪr//, UK: //əʊ dɪə//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Oh dear formal or informal?

"Oh dear" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Oh dear?

Used when something unfortunate happens. Appropriate in casual conversation but may be too informal for professional contexts.