Cool MateSpend vs Squander
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Spend | Squander | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | To use money or time to buy something or do something. | To waste something valuable, like time or money. |
| CEFR level | A1 | B1 |
| Part of speech | verb | verb |
| Usage notes | Use 'spend' when talking about how much money or time is used. It is common in both spoken and written English. Not usually used in very formal contexts. | Use 'squander' to describe wasting something valuable; it's typically used in a neutral tone, not informal or slang contexts. |
Frequently asked questions: Spend vs Squander
What's the difference between "Spend" and "Squander"?
"Spend" means: To use money or time to buy something or do something. "Squander" means: To waste something valuable, like time or money.
When should I use "Spend" and "Squander"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Spend" and "Squander" the same CEFR level?
"Spend" is at A1, "Squander" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.