spare time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spare time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a period of time that is available to do something other than what is normally scheduled or expected. For example: "In my spare time, I like to read books and play the piano."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What of your spare time?

The New York Times

In their spare time, perhaps?

The New York Times

In her spare time, she sings opera.

The New York Times

In his spare time, he travelled.

The New Yorker

In his spare time, he climbed mountains.

The New Yorker

It was, like, all your spare time".

The New Yorker

But that was in their spare time.

The New York Times

In her spare time, she wrote.

The New Yorker

In their spare time, they make furniture.

The New Yorker

Otherwise, he spent his spare time reading.

The New Yorker

In his spare time, Matthew farms sheep.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "spare time" when contrasting it with time dedicated to obligatory tasks.

Common error

Avoid using "spare time" as an excuse for delaying important tasks. "Spare time" should be used for leisure or personal enrichment, not for avoiding responsibilities.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "spare time" is as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in describing activities pursued during periods free from obligations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

30%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "spare time" is a very common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe free moments outside of work or other obligations. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. While synonyms like ""free time"" and ""leisure time"" exist, "spare time" remains a clear and effective choice for conveying this concept. It's important to utilize "spare time" appropriately for leisure and personal enrichment, rather than as an excuse for procrastination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

free time

This alternative is more general and widely used.

leisure time

This alternative implies a more relaxed and enjoyable use of the available time.

downtime

This suggests a period of rest or inactivity.

time off

This refers to time away from work or other obligations.

personal time

This emphasizes that the time is for one's own pursuits and relaxation.

available time

This suggests that the time is not currently committed to any activity and is available.

unscheduled time

This highlights the lack of planned activities during that period.

off hours

This phrase is typically used in a professional context to indicate time outside of work.

discretionary time

This implies that the individual has the power to decide how the time is used.

extra time

This suggests additional time beyond what is normally allocated.

FAQs

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

You can use "spare time" to describe activities you do when you are not working or studying. For example, "In my spare time, I enjoy painting and hiking."

What are some synonyms for "spare time"?

Some synonyms for "spare time" include "free time", "leisure time", and "downtime".

Is it correct to say "sparing time" instead of "spare time"?

While "sparing time" is grammatically understandable, "spare time" is the more common and accepted phrase to describe free time.

What's the difference between "spare time" and ""free time""?

The phrases are largely interchangeable, though ""free time"" is slightly more general. "Spare time" often implies time available after fulfilling obligations.