spare (B2)

verb, adjective

Pronunciation: /spɛər/

Definition

To have something (like time or money) available for use; to be able to give or allow something.

Examples

• Do you have any spare change?

• I can't spare the time to go out tonight.

• The manager couldn't spare an assistant to help with the event.

How to Use spare

spare someone/something (verb)

To refrain from harming or punishing someone or something. — "The authorities decided to spare the captured soldiers."

spare someone something (verb)

To give or allow someone something, especially time or money. — "Can you spare me a few dollars?"

spare someone the trouble/embarrassment/etc. (verb)

To save someone from having to experience something unpleasant. — "I'll do the dishes to spare you the trouble."

Synonyms of spare

Words with a similar meaning to spare:

• extra
• available
• unoccupied
• disposable

Antonyms of spare

Words with the opposite meaning to spare:

• needed
• occupied

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