spare - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
spare Word Meanings
- to keep something for future use
- to give up or forego something
- extra or additional
spare Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
spare Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/speə/
US
/spɛr/
spare Word Etymology
spare = 'free from' + 'to save'; from Old English 'sperian' → Old French 'espargnier' → Middle English. Imagine a backpacker sparing room in their pack for unexpected adventures.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for a cluttered drawer and move a stack of cards, watching them shift under my fingers. I set aside a few extras as spare for later, feeling the pull between use now and saving for tomorrow. I hold the edge of a notebook, adjust its position, and decide to keep the extra page for notes. The choice lands softly, and the room feels lighter as the stash settles into usefulness rather than clutter.
Real Context
Spare has multiple related meanings in everyday English. As a verb, it often means to refrain from harming or to give up or withhold something, as in 'spare her from duty' or 'spare some change for the bus.' It can also mean to keep something for future use, such as 'spare a moment' or 'spare room in my bag.' As an adjective, spare describes something extra or not needed, like 'spare parts' or 'a spare key.' As a noun, a spare is an extra item kept in reserve, for example a spare tire. Learners often mix up 'spare' with 'extra' or confuse the 'give up' sense with 'save' or 'reserve.'
Usage Reminders
- • Use spare for something kept in reserve or set aside.
- • Say 'spare me the details' when you want to skip information.
- • Distinguish spare as adj. for extra items (spare tire) from the verb sense (spare someone from trouble).
- • Collocations: spare time, spare parts, spare room.
- • In phrases with 'not spare', it emphasizes thoroughness (spare no effort).
Common Misconceptions
- Spare = only extra; not applicable to saving or withholding
- Spare means to abandon or give up something permanently
- A spare is always a physical object, never a concept like time
- Spare cannot be used with negative phrases like spare no effort
- Confusing spare with spareful or sparing instead of sparing/refraining
Thinking Differences
English supports a broad mix of verbs, nouns, and adjectives with spare across time, effort, and objects. Learners often assume spare only means 'extra' and miss its verb sense of saving or withholding; they also misplace it with 'save' when we mean reserve a resource or someone from harm.
Learning Tips
- Match each sense of spare to its typical noun, verb, and adjective forms
- Pay attention to collocations: spare time, spare parts, spare room
- Practice phrases with not spare to emphasize effort
- Differentiate by context: time/objects vs. people/feelings
- Compare with similar words: extra, save, reserve
- Use mnemonic: spare means 'set aside' not 'spend' or 'give up'
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'spare'?
A.Yellow
B.Broken
C.Fast
D.Extra
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'spare' used correctly?
A.She had no spare time to meet for lunch.
B.He broke the spare glass.
C.The spare sun was shining brightly.
D.They ate spare for dinner.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'spare'?
A.Abundant
B.Used
C.Scarce
D.Worn
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'spare'?
A.Generous
B.Lavish
C.Ample
D.Plentiful
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'spare' in a real-life context?
A.I always keep a spare set of keys in case I lose the original.
B.The spare tire in my car was completely flat.
C.She had no spare change for the parking meter.
D.He decided to spare the time to help his friend.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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