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spare

Pronunciation: [spɛr]

Word

Learn how to use spare in a sentence: 12 audio examples across 4 meanings.

Context: “personal belongings”

(adjective) when you have something extra that you don't really need. If you have a spare toy, it means you have one that you aren't using right now.

Example

I keep a spare key under the flower pot just in case I lose my main one.

Example

I don't have a spare shirt, so I'll have to wash this one tonight.

Example

Do you have a spare pencil I can borrow?

Context: “personal possessions”

(verb) to set aside something extra for future use. It means you save or keep something for when you might need it later.

Example

I like to spare a little money each week for my vacation.

Example

He didn't spare any time to help his friends even when they needed it.

Example

Can you spare some of your snacks with your brother?

Context: “personal actions”

(verb) to not hurt or punish someone, to show kindness or mercy. It means you decide to let someone go free or give them a break.

Example

She chose to spare her friend the embarrassment by not telling anyone.

Example

He didn’t spare my feelings when he told me the truth.

Example

Will you spare me from doing chores today?

Context: “personal items”

(noun) an extra item that is kept for use when needed. Like a backup, it is something that you can use if the first one is lost or broken.

Example

I have a spare in my backpack just in case.

Example

There's no spare for this game, so we can't play anymore if someone loses theirs.

Example

Do you have a spare I can use for the project?

How to pronounce spare

Pronunciation: [spɛr]

Listen and repeat as many times as you need.

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