Squandered: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used when referring to wasting money, time, opportunities, or resources in a reckless or foolish manner. It implies a significant or regretful loss.

• He squandered his inheritance on luxury cars and extravagant vacations.
• She squandered the opportunity to study abroad by procrastinating.

A general term for using or expending something carelessly, extravagantly, or to no purpose. It is the most neutral and broad term among the group.

• Don't waste your food; there are people who don't have enough to eat.
• We shouldn't waste time on arguments.

This word implies using something incorrectly or for the wrong purpose, often resulting in damage or inefficiency. It can have a negative connotation.

• They misused the company's funds for personal expenses.
• He misused his authority by making unfair decisions.

This phrase is used to describe wasting time, money, or resources gradually on trivial or unimportant matters. It suggests small, continuous losses rather than one large one.

• He frittered away his free time playing video games.
• She frittered away her savings on small, unnecessary purchases.

A casual and informal term that generally refers to wasting money or opportunities impulsively. It often reflects a sense of carelessness or lack of foresight.

• He blew all his paycheck at the casino last night.
• She blew her chances at getting the promotion by missing the deadline.

Used when someone recklessly spends or loses resources like money, time, or opportunities.

• He squandered his inheritance on luxurious vacations and cars
• She squandered her time scrolling through social media instead of studying

General term for using something carelessly or without any benefit.

• Don't waste your food; people are starving elsewhere
• He wasted his chances by not preparing for the interview

Refers to gradually wasting resources, especially time or money, on unimportant activities.

• He frittered away his afternoon playing video games
• They fritter away their money on small, unnecessary purchases

Implies using time, money, or resources in a way that is considered improper or unethical.

• He misspent the charity funds on personal expenses
• She misspent her talents on trivial tasks

Describes spending time in a lazy, carefree manner without doing anything productive.

• She idled away the summer days lounging by the pool
• He idled away his weekends watching TV