Spare: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to something that is kept for emergency use or as a backup.

• I keep a spare tire in my car
• Do you have a spare pen?

Used to describe something that is more than what is usual or needed.

• I have extra clothes if you need them
• She took on extra work to earn more money

Used to describe something that comes as an addition to what already exists.

• We need additional funds to complete the project
• The doctor asked for additional tests

Used to refer to something set aside for future use or special purposes.

• We have a reserve of food supplies in case of emergency
• The funds in the reserve account will only be used if necessary

Use 'spare' when referring to something extra that is available for use when needed, often with the implication that it is not being used currently.

• Do you have a spare pen I could borrow?
• We need to find some spare time to finish our project.

Use 'free' when someone or something has no current commitments or restrictions, and can be used or accessed without cost.

• I am free this weekend to help you move.
• They are offering a free trial of the software.

Use 'available' when something or someone is ready for use or accessible, with no current schedule obligations.

• There are still tickets available for the concert.
• Is the professor available for a meeting this afternoon?

Use 'unoccupied' when referring to a place or position that is empty or not being used at the moment. It implies that nothing or no one is currently using that space.

• The room was unoccupied, so we decided to use it for our meeting.
• Is this seat unoccupied?

See the entry for 'spare' above.

This is a general term that can be used in many contexts where you transfer something from yourself to another person. It can be used for tangible objects, support, or sharing information.

• Can you give me the salt, please?
• He gave her some advice about the project.

Often used when presenting something as a suggestion or a proposal, or when you make something available for someone to accept or reject. It can have a formal or polite connotation.

• She offered him a seat.
• They offered to help with the event organization.

Used mainly in the context of giving something, usually money, goods, or time, to a charity, organization, or cause with no expectation of getting something in return.

• She decided to donate all her old clothes to the local shelter.
• He regularly donates blood to the Red Cross.