spend

"Spend" is a very common English verb with a few closely related but distinct meanings. Most of the time it is about money or time — two things everyone deals with every day! Here are the most important senses.

1verbpaying money

When you use money to buy something or pay for a service, you are spending money. Think of it as money leaving your pocket or bank account in exchange for something.

everyday language, finance · Modern, widely used

She spent €50 on a new pair of shoes.

I try not to spend too much money when I go shopping.

He spent all his savings on a trip to Japan.

2verbusing time

Just like you can spend money, you can also spend time. When you spend time doing something, you are using a period of your life on that activity. It does not involve money at all — just hours, days, or moments.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

We spent the whole afternoon at the beach.

She spends a lot of time reading books.

He spent three years living in Canada.

3verbfigurativeusing up energy or effort

You can also spend energy, effort, or resources — meaning you use them up completely on something. Imagine pouring all your strength into a task until there is nothing left.

everyday language · Modern, widely used · figurative

The team spent a lot of effort preparing for the competition.

She spent all her energy trying to finish the project on time.

Don't spend your creativity on tasks that don't matter.