B2adjective2K

Spare

UK /["/speə(r)/"]/US /["/sper/"]/

Definition

available to do what you want with rather than work

In simple words: extra or unused.

Examples

  • He's studying music in his **spare time**.
  • I haven't had a spare moment this morning.
  • We've got a spare bedroom, if you'd like to stay.
  • I'm afraid I haven't got any **spare cash**.
  • Are there any tickets **going spare** *(= are there any available, not being used by somebody else)*?
  • a spare key/tyre
  • Take some spare clothes in case you get wet.
  • Your mum would go spare if she knew!
  • I’ll go spare if I don’t get out of the house soon!

Usage notes

Use 'spare' to describe something extra that can be used if needed. It's common in everyday conversation and writing, but avoid using it in overly formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

spare + object

Memory hint

Think of a spare tire—it's an extra tire you use if the main one is flat.

Collocations

  • spare time
  • spare parts
  • spare room
  • spare change
  • spare tire

Synonyms

  • extra
  • additional
  • surplus
  • leftover
  • backup

Antonyms

  • deplete
  • consume
  • use up

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'spare' with 'share'.
  • Using 'spare' with uncountable nouns incorrectly.
  • Misplacing it in a sentence, like saying 'spare me some time' instead of 'spare some time for me.'