Near and dear to one's heart 📍❤️

Meaning

Something that is very important and cherished.

Origin

Imagine a time when treasures weren't stored in vaults, but close to the body, perhaps in a pouch worn around the neck or tucked into a coat. Things you held 'near' were physically close, and things 'dear' were precious and beloved. Combining these ideas, "near and dear to one's heart" paints a vivid picture of possessions or affections so valuable, they are kept tucked away in the most intimate and protected space – the heart itself. This phrase evolved from this very literal sense of proximity and affection, becoming a powerful metaphor for anything deeply cherished.

💖 love 🤝 friendship 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 family

Near and dear to one's heart represented with emoji📍❤️

This delightful pairing of pin and heart not only functions as a charming visual pun but also underscores the profound emotional resonance of proximity. It playfully teases the viewer, asking: what objects, what places, what people hold that special, tender spot in our own hearts? It serves as a miniature meditation on connection, reminding us that the things we hold most dear are often anchored in a specific, cherished location, be it a physical place or a metaphorical one.

Examples

  • Her grandmother's locket was very near and dear to her heart.
  • Protecting the local park is a cause that is near and dear to many in the community.
  • The old, slightly lopsided teddy bear named Barnaby is still very near and dear to my heart, even though I'm grown.
  • The thought of a perfectly baked chocolate chip cookie is especially near and dear to my heart after a long day.

Frequently asked questions

Is "near and dear to one's heart" an idiom or a proverb?

"Near and dear to one's heart" is considered an idiom, not a proverb. Idioms are phrases whose meaning cannot be deduced from the literal meanings of the words, while proverbs are short, well-known sayings stating a general truth or piece of advice.

What's the opposite of "near and dear to one's heart"?

The opposite of something "near and dear to one's heart" would be something utterly indifferent or even detestable. Phrases like "beneath contempt" or "not worth a second thought" capture this sentiment of complete disregard or a strong negative feeling.

Can "near and dear to one's heart" refer to something disliked?

No, the phrase "near and dear to one's heart" inherently signifies affection and importance. It's impossible for something one dislikes or is indifferent to to also be considered "near and dear" to their heart; the terms themselves are contradictory.

Similar to "Near and dear to one's heart"

A labor of love
Both speak to deep personal investment, but 'a labor of love' highlights the effort and sacrifice involved, often in creative or caregiving pursuits, while 'near and dear' is more about the intrinsic value and emotional attachment
The apple of one's eye
Both point to something or someone held in extremely high regard, but 'the apple of one's eye' often singles out a specific person or thing with intense fondness and protectiveness, whereas 'near and dear' can encompass broader concepts or multiple cherished items
Hold something sacred
Both convey profound importance, but 'hold something sacred' elevates the object of affection to a level of reverence, suggesting moral or spiritual significance that 'near and dear' doesn't necessarily imply

Opposite of "Near and dear to one's heart"

A dime a dozen
This argues that whatever might be considered 'near and dear' is, in fact, utterly commonplace and lacking in any special value, challenging the very notion of cherished uniqueness
Tread with indifference
Instead of cherishing something, this suggests approaching it with a complete lack of care or concern, highlighting a stark contrast between emotional investment and utter detachment
Disposable
This directly counters the idea of something being permanently cherished by framing it as easily discardable, proposing a world where nothing is too precious to be thrown away

Related to "Near and dear to one's heart"

Close to my chest
This phrase shares the idea of high personal value with 'near and dear,' but specifically refers to secrets or information that are guarded, not necessarily openly cherished
A pet project
Much like something 'near and dear,' a pet project signifies a special focus of personal endeavor, though it specifically implies a project undertaken with particular enthusiasm and personal investment
The heart of the matter
This phrase orbits 'near and dear' by pointing to the absolute core of something, the most essential part, suggesting that what is 'near and dear' is often intrinsically linked to this central importance
A pearl of great price
This shares the deep value and rarity implied by 'near and dear,' framing cherished possessions or ideals as treasures that demand significant sacrifice