Don't you dare

9th December 2024

Don't you dare

We use this expression to warn someone not to do something. Often it's not a very serious situation.
Usage
Written: 
No
Spoken: 
Yes
Formal: 
No
Informal: 
Yes
Example 1
There's only one chocolate left. Can I have it?
Don't you dare! I'm saving that for Molly. She hasn't had one yet.
Example 2
Mary! I'm going to push you in the swimming-pool - come here!
Don't you dare! I haven't got time for games like that.