Phrasal verb
spring for
Definition
phrasal verb. to pay for something, especially when it is a treat or something expensive for yourself or others.
phrasal verb. to pay for or purchase something, typically as a treat or an upgrade; often implies a degree of generosity or a decision to spend more than the minimum required.
Examples
“I think I'll spring for the expensive wine tonight.”
“Since it was her birthday, her parents decided to spring for a first-class plane ticket.”
“The department head eventually agreed to spring for the high-end software licenses, acknowledging that the cheaper alternatives were insufficient for the team's needs.”
Examples
simple
“I think I'll spring for the expensive wine tonight.”
contextual
“Since it was her birthday, her parents decided to spring for a first-class plane ticket.”
complex
“The department head eventually agreed to spring for the high-end software licenses, acknowledging that the cheaper alternatives were insufficient for the team's needs.”
Usage
the object is usually a luxury, an upgrade, or a gift for someone else.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'pay for' to show the nuance of 'treating' someone; the image of 'springing' suggests a sudden, slightly impulsive decision to spend.
Pitfall
He springed for the dinner.
He sprang for the dinner.
the verb 'spring' is irregular; the past tense is 'sprang' or 'sprung', never 'springed'.
Phrasal verb
Particles
for
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
spring + for + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944EikenEikenTest in Practical English ProficiencyThe English proficiency test from the Eiken Foundation of Japan, widely taken by Japanese students. Grades run from 5 to 1, with Pre-1 and Pre-2 between them.Pre-1
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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