Dear is used when addressing a letter, but can also refer to somebody else (used much less often) Darling is used to reference your wife, but can also refer to somebody else. This word conveys a stronger sense of 'love'. Dear "Company Name". I am writing to inform you.... Waitress says "What would you like dear?" Have a good day darling Waitress says "What would you like darling" (However, this case is used much less often"