Meaning of the word "for dear life" in English

What does "for dear life" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

for dear life

US /fɔr dɪr laɪf/
UK /fɔr dɪr laɪf/
"for dear life" picture

Idiom

1.

with great effort or desperation, as if one's life depends on it

Example:
He clung to the rope for dear life as the boat rocked in the storm.
The children ran for dear life when they saw the dog chasing them.
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