spend time

USAGE SUMMARY

"spend time" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English.
You would use it when talking about an individual or group of people taking the time to do something. For example, "We decided to spend time together to catch up and reminisce about old times."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Spend time with us.

AAC: Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Spend time complimenting yourself.

WikiHow

Spend time elsewhere.

WikiHow

Spend time with kids.

WikiHow

Spend time talking together.

WikiHow

Spend time hanging out.

WikiHow

Spend time on yourself.

WikiHow

Spend time doing nothing.

WikiHow

Spend time outdoors.

WikiHow

Spend time with him.

WikiHow

Spend time with them.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "spend time" to emphasize the act of engaging in an activity or being with someone, focusing on the experience rather than the specific outcome. For example, "I like to spend time reading" indicates enjoyment of the process itself.

Common error

Avoid using "spend time" with adverbs that contradict the nature of dedicating time, such as "spend time carelessly". Instead, use adverbs that align with intentional engagement, like "spend time thoughtfully".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spend time" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the act of allocating or using time for a particular activity or with someone. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is commonly used in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

83%

Science

11%

News & Media

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "spend time" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase, indicating the act of dedicating time to an activity or person. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically sound and accepted expression. Predominantly found in Wiki and Science contexts, it carries a neutral to informal register. For alternatives, consider ""dedicate time"", "invest time", or ""make time"" to fine-tune your message. Remember to use "spend time on" for activities and "spend time with" for people. Avoid contradictory adverbs to maintain clarity and precision in your writing. This detailed analysis aims to provide writers with effective guidance on employing "spend time" accurately and effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dedicate time

Focuses more on the act of formally allocating time to something, suggesting a deliberate decision.

make time

Suggests effort in finding or creating time amidst a busy schedule.

invest time

Highlights the idea of putting time into something with the expectation of a return or benefit.

devote time

Similar to dedicate, but often implies a stronger emotional commitment.

take the time

Emphasizes the act of setting aside time, often for something important but potentially overlooked.

allocate time

Implies a formal distribution of time for specific tasks or activities.

find time

Implies effort in locating available time slots.

give time

Highlights the act of offering one's time to someone or something, often implying volunteering or support.

pass time

Suggests using time in a leisurely or casual way, often without a specific purpose.

while away the hours

A more poetic and descriptive way of saying to spend time, often implying relaxation.

FAQs

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

You can use "spend time" to describe dedicating time to an activity or person. For example, "I want to "dedicate time" to learning a new language" or "Let's "make time" to catch up this week".

What are some alternatives to "spend time"?

Alternatives include ""dedicate time"", "invest time", or "devote time", depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "spend time on" or "spend time with"?

Use "spend time on" when referring to an activity or task, such as "spend time on your studies". Use "spend time with" when referring to people, such as "spend time with family".

What does it mean to "spend quality time"?

"Spend quality time" refers to dedicating focused and meaningful attention to someone or something, aiming to strengthen relationships or improve skills. It's about being present and engaged during the time "invested".