# sparring

/ˈspɑɹɪŋ/ (US) · /spˈɑːɹɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sparring
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a type of practice fight where you use the moves of a sport like boxing without trying to hurt your partner. It helps you improve your skills in a safe way.

For teachers: a form of training common to many combat sports, involving the practice of free-form fighting in a controlled environment. Often used metaphorically to describe a verbal or intellectual exchange of opposing views.

## Examples

- The boxers spent the afternoon sparring in the gym.
- Before his title fight, the champion spent several weeks sparring with partners who mimicked his opponent's style.
- While physical sparring is essential for developing a fighter's reflexes, the political candidates engaged in a different kind of sparring during the televised debate, testing each other's policy positions.

## Usage notes

- Often functions as a gerund noun; frequently paired with the verb 'to go' or used as a modifier in 'sparring partner'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.