for a spell

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "for a spell" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is an idiomatic expression which means for a short period of time. For example, you might say: I took a break from work for a spell to recharge.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Meds stabilize his disease for a spell.

The New Yorker

Ring fingers fattened for a spell.

The New Yorker

debacle, but he did vent to me for a spell.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Galileo got outvoted for a spell," Mr. Perry said.

The New York Times

"Galileo got outvoted for a spell," he said.

The New York Times - Science

He was out of work for a spell.

The New York Times

Brian Clough was banned from the touchline for a spell after cuffing a pitch invader.

The Guardian - Sport

Nothing happens for a spell.

The Guardian - Film

"For a spell," Jamie said.

The New Yorker

Americans replaced the Spanish as rulers for a spell, before granting the country independence.

The Economist

But they must then return for a spell of wa'yigelin in the local mosque.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the temporary absence of something, "for a spell" can be a good alternative to more formal phrases like "for a period of time".

Common error

While "for a spell" is widely understood, it is generally considered informal. In formal or academic writing, opt for phrases like "for a short time" or "temporarily" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for a spell" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by indicating the duration of an action or state. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase introduces the element of time, answering the question "for how long?".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "for a spell" is a grammatically correct and common idiomatic phrase used to indicate a temporary period. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted and understood. While mainly appearing in News & Media, it is considered neutral in register but leans slightly towards informal. When greater formality is needed, consider using alternatives such as "for a while" or "temporarily".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for a while

Indicates a period of time, often longer or less defined than "for a spell".

for a time

Similar to "for a while", suggesting a temporary duration, but slightly more formal.

for a little while

Emphasizes the short duration, adding a touch of informality.

for a short time

Direct and less idiomatic way of expressing a limited duration.

for a period

More formal and precise, indicating a specific duration.

temporarily

Adverb indicating something is not permanent; lacks the idiomatic feel.

briefly

Adverb indicating conciseness in time.

for a season

Implies a duration linked to a specific season or period within a larger cycle.

for a moment

Suggests a very brief duration, shorter than "for a spell".

for an interval

Suggests a break or pause, more formal than "for a spell".

FAQs

How can I use "for a spell" in a sentence?

You can use "for a spell" to indicate a temporary period. For example, "He was out of work "for a spell"", or "I'm out in Afghanistan "for a spell" to do some reporting".

What's a good alternative to "for a spell"?

Alternatives to "for a spell" include "for a while", "for a time", or "temporarily", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is "for a spell" formal or informal?

"For a spell" is generally considered an informal expression. Use more formal alternatives like "for a short period" in professional or academic writing.

What does "for a spell" actually mean?

"For a spell" means for a short, unspecified period of time. It suggests something is temporary but doesn't specify the exact duration.