'Dare' can be used as a modal verb (like can, must) or as a regular verb. It expresses courage to do something, challenge someone, or lack of courage. It's often used in negative and question forms.
As a modal, 'dare' is used mainly in negative (daren't) and questions. No 's' in third person, no 'to' after it. More common in British English.
I daren't tell him the truth. (I don't dare to tell - modal form)
How dare you speak to me like that! (challenge/anger - modal)
She daren't ask for a raise. (she doesn't dare - modal)
Dare I say it? (question - modal form)
Dare as Regular Verb (Dare to + Infinitive)
As a regular verb, 'dare' takes 'to + infinitive' and follows normal verb rules (dares, dared, didn't dare). More common in American English.
She didn't dare ask for a raise. (regular verb - no 'to' needed)
I don't dare to tell him. (regular verb with 'to')
He dares to challenge the boss. (third person 's')
They dared to speak up. (past tense)
How Dare You! (Expression of Anger)
'How dare you!' is a fixed expression showing anger, shock, or offense at someone's behavior. Always uses modal form 'dare' (no 'to').
How dare you speak to me like that! (anger at rude behavior)
How dare she ignore my calls! (anger at being ignored)
How dare they cancel without telling me! (anger at cancellation)
Common mistakes
Not "I don't dare tell him." — say "I don't dare to tell him. OR I daren't tell him.". As regular verb: dare to + infinitive. As modal: daren't + base verb. Choose one pattern..
Not "How dare you to speak like that!" — say "How dare you speak like that!". 'How dare you' always uses modal form (no 'to'). How dare you + base verb..