spare shoes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spare shoes" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It refers to an extra pair of shoes that can be used in case the original pair becomes unusable or for a different purpose. Example: "I always keep a pair of spare shoes in my car in case I need to change out of my heels at work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

A footman gleefully reported that his naval valise contained no spare shoes – his only pair was holed – or pyjamas, or slippers.

The Guardian

Spare shoes I sometimes walk to work in trainers, and I got sick of lugging my shoes back and forward so I now keep a pair here.

The Guardian - Money

Instead, you cart your spare shoes to work in a free tote from PAD art fair previews; the kind of canvas that only contacts and status can procure.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We still need fuel for our cars". Nearby, one woman was carrying the spare shoes she usually stores at work: "I work for the department of Labor and they won't let me work," she said.

The Guardian

The tree stump was decorated with spare shoes, trainers, flip flops and boots and was situated in the Woolston area of Warrington.

BBC

Carry spare shoes to change into.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

If you swap to wearing a spare shoe and it doesn't match your outfit – it doesn't matter.

WikiHow

Grell, who was a manager at a button factory for much of his working life, became infatuated with Russian ballet, hanging out at stage doors to get autographs or spare toe shoes, and hurling voluminous quantities of flowers to stages during ovations.

Los Angeles Times

Folders, spare paper, shoes, whatever you want!

WikiHow

Family photos, trinkets from a vacation, an extra pair of shoes or spare chopsticks are just some of the things routinely left lying around in what has become personal space.

The New York Times

I got here with about 10 minutes to spare, put my shoes on, couple of putts.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When traveling or commuting, pack "spare shoes" to ensure comfort and preparedness for different activities or unexpected weather conditions.

Common error

Don't just pack any "spare shoes"; ensure they are in good condition and appropriate for the intended use. Worn-out or unsuitable shoes defeat the purpose of having a spare pair.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spare shoes" functions as a noun phrase, where "spare" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "shoes". This phrase typically identifies an extra pair of shoes available for use if the primary pair is damaged, unsuitable, or otherwise unavailable. As per Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

34%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "spare shoes" is a grammatically correct noun phrase indicating an extra pair of shoes kept for potential use. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Usage is moderately common, particularly in news and media, and general information contexts. The phrase serves to communicate preparedness, emphasizing the availability of an alternative pair of shoes should the need arise. While versatile, it's important to ensure the "spare shoes" are actually suitable for the intended situation to effectively fulfill their purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extra shoes

Focuses on the quantity being more than the initially required.

backup footwear

Replaces "shoes" with a broader term, emphasizing the support function.

replacement shoes

Highlights the substitution aspect if the primary shoes are unusable.

alternative shoes

Indicates a choice between different pairs of shoes.

second pair of shoes

Specifies the quantity as a pair, indicating a complete set.

change of shoes

Emphasizes the act of switching footwear.

additional shoes

Highlights adding more footwear.

reserve shoes

Implies keeping shoes ready for use when needed.

emergency shoes

Highlights the readiness to cover unexpected situations.

duplicate shoes

Emphasizes the identity of the original shoes.

FAQs

How to use "spare shoes" in a sentence?

You can use "spare shoes" in sentences like, "I keep "spare shoes" at the office in case my heels become uncomfortable" or "Hikers should always carry "spare shoes" in case their primary pair gets wet".

What's a good reason to carry "spare shoes"?

Carrying "extra shoes" is practical for situations where your primary footwear becomes damaged, uncomfortable, or unsuitable for a change in activity or weather.

Which is better, "spare shoes" or "extra shoes"?

Both "spare shoes" and "extra shoes" are acceptable. "Spare shoes" implies a backup pair, while "extra shoes" simply indicates having more than one pair.

What can I say instead of "spare shoes"?

You could use alternatives such as "backup footwear", "replacement shoes", or "alternative shoes" depending on the context.