SPARE

Definition of SPARE

SPARE Adjective and Verb

Spare is an adjective and verb that describes something additional, extra, or available for use when needed. It refers to items or time that are not currently in use and can be allocated or utilized as needed.

SPARE as an adjective

Additional or Extra: Spare as an adjective describes something that is extra or additional, often kept for use when needed. This can apply to objects, time, or resources that are not immediately required but are available for future use. For example, “Keep a spare key in case you lose the original one.”

Available for Use: Spare can also refer to something that is available and not currently in use, making it ready to be utilized if necessary. This usage emphasizes the readiness and availability of the item. For instance, “We have a spare room that can be used for guests.”

Minimalistic or Simple: In some contexts, spare describes a minimalistic or simple design or approach, focusing on essential elements and avoiding excess. For example, “The artist’s spare design highlighted the simplicity and elegance of the piece.”

Contrast with Needed or Essential: Understanding spare helps differentiate it from what is essential or actively in use. While spare implies something additional or extra, essential items are required for immediate use. For example, “Unlike a spare tire, the main tire is necessary for driving.”

SPARE as a verb

To Provide Extra: Spare as a verb means to give or provide something additional or extra to someone, often when it is not immediately needed by the giver. This usage highlights the act of offering or allocating something that is surplus. For example, “She agreed to spare some time to help with the project.”

To Save from Harm: Spare can also mean to save someone from harm, trouble, or distress, often by not subjecting them to it. This usage emphasizes the act of protecting or alleviating difficulties. For instance, “The judge decided to spare the defendant from a harsher sentence due to mitigating circumstances.”

Contrast with Withholding or Denying: Understanding spare helps distinguish it from withholding or denying, where something is not provided or given. While spare implies offering or saving, withholding involves keeping something back. For example, “Instead of spare resources, withholding them could impact the project.”

Practical and Social Implications: The act of sparing can have practical implications, such as providing assistance or support, and social implications, such as showing compassion or generosity. For example, “By sparing time to volunteer, you contribute positively to your community.”

In conclusion, spare is both an adjective and a verb that describe the concept of something additional, extra, or available for use. As an adjective, it refers to items or resources that are not immediately needed but can be utilized when necessary. As a verb, it involves providing or saving something extra or alleviating harm. Recognizing the different uses of spare can help in managing resources, offering support, and understanding minimalistic approaches.

Examples of SPARE in a sentence

SPARE as an adjective in a sentence

• The spare tire was kept in the trunk of the car.
• She wore a spare outfit to the event.
• The room had a spare bed for guests.
• They had a spare key hidden under the doormat.
• The company offered a spare part for the machine.
• He maintained a spare diet to stay fit.
• The spare time was spent on hobbies.
• The spare change was collected for charity.

SPARE as a verb in a sentence

• She decided to spare him from the trouble of moving the furniture.
• They were asked to spare some time for the meeting.
• He couldn’t spare any money for the donation.
• They chose to spare the child from the harsh truth.
• The coach was able to spare a few players for the second match.
• She spared no effort in preparing the presentation.
• They spared the details of the plan for later.
• He spared the trouble of explaining by showing them directly.

Origin of SPARE

Spare traces its origins to the Latin word sparus, which means “a weapon” or “a spear,” derived from sparus (a kind of spear) and related to the concept of being set aside or saved for later use. The term evolved through Old French and Middle English to acquire its modern meanings of being extra or additional, as well as to describe the act of giving or saving something for future use.

• Latin: Sparus (a spear), possibly related to spargere (to scatter or spread), reflecting the concept of something that is kept aside or set apart.
• Latin: Sparus referred to a type of weapon or spear, which influenced the sense of something being kept aside or spare.
• Old French: The term evolved into esparre (extra, additional), retaining the idea of something kept aside for future use.
• Middle English: Spare emerged to describe something extra or additional, as well as the act of saving or refraining from using something.

In contemporary English, spare refers to something additional or extra that is not immediately needed but kept for future use, such as a spare part or a spare room. It also describes the act of refraining from using something or giving it away, reflecting the evolution from its historical roots in Latin to modern applications. The term has maintained its core meanings of being extra or set aside, with expanded usage in various contexts.