spare me

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spare me" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express a desire to avoid hearing something, often because it is considered unnecessary or insincere. Example: "When he started to complain about his problems, I just said, 'Spare me the details; I really don't want to hear it.'"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"Spare me.

The New York Times

God spare me.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But spare me.

The New York Times

But spare me the bullshit.

Independent

Please spare me the lecture.

The New Yorker

"Come on, Norbert, spare me the lecture.

The New Yorker

I told him: 'Steve, spare me.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

He spared me.

The New York Times - Magazine

Thank you for having spared me, master".

The New Yorker

My mother blessedly spared me these films.

The Guardian - Film

If God spares me and I'm healthy.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Incorporate "spare me" to add a touch of sarcasm or wit to your writing. It's a versatile phrase that can express annoyance, disbelief, or simply a desire to move on to a different topic.

Common error

Avoid using "spare me" in highly formal or professional settings where a more polite or diplomatic response is required. Opt for phrases like "I understand your point" or "I appreciate the information, but..." to maintain a respectful tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spare me" functions as an imperative, directly telling someone to avoid doing something. It's a request, often tinged with impatience or annoyance, to be excused from enduring something unpleasant or unwanted. Ludwig indicates its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Academia

16%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "spare me" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to politely, yet firmly, reject unwanted information or arguments. Ludwig confirms its versatility and correctness. It's particularly prevalent in News & Media and academic contexts, but less appropriate for formal settings. While "spare me" is versatile, related phrases such as "don't bother me with" or "save it" can offer nuanced alternatives for specific situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

don't bother me with

Emphasizes avoiding being troubled or burdened by something.

hold the lecture

Asks someone not to give an unwanted or unnecessary lecture or explanation.

I don't want to hear about

Directly expresses a refusal to listen to a particular topic.

save it

A short, dismissive way of telling someone not to bother saying something.

cut it out

An abrupt way to stop an action or behavior that is irritating.

give me a break

Implies disbelief or annoyance, asking for a respite from something unpleasant.

enough already

Indicates impatience and a desire for something to stop immediately.

I've had enough

Expresses a limit has been reached and no more will be tolerated.

stop it

A straightforward command to cease an action.

leave me alone

A request to be left in solitude, free from interruption.

FAQs

What does "spare me" mean?

"Spare me" is an idiomatic expression used to tell someone you don't want to hear something, usually because you find it boring, irritating, or unnecessary.

How can I use "spare me" in a sentence?

You can use "spare me" to express your disinterest in hearing something. For example, "Spare me the details; I'm not interested in your excuses."

What are some alternatives to saying "spare me"?

Alternatives include "don't bother me with", "I don't want to hear about", or simply "save it" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "spare me" in a formal setting?

No, "spare me" is generally considered informal. In formal settings, it's better to use more polite alternatives, such as "I appreciate the information, but..." or "I understand your point".