ENGLISH
REFERENCE

spends

v.
A1 Beginner US //ˈspɛndz// UK //spˈɛndz// spends

v. to use money to buy things or to use time for a specific activity. You can spend your weekend reading or spend your salary on a new phone.

v. to pay out money in exchange for goods or services, or to pass time in a specific way or place. Transitive — requires a direct object representing the currency or duration used.


SIMPLE

She spends most of her money on books.

CONTEXTUAL

The company spends a significant portion of its annual budget on research and development to stay competitive.

COMPLEX

While the administration spends considerable political capital on domestic reform, critics argue that international diplomatic relations are being neglected.

Synonyms
Usage

The verb is transitive. When referring to time or money used for an activity, it is followed by 'on' + noun or the '-ing' form of a verb.

Pitfall

I spend much time for studyingI spend much time studyingWhen followed by an activity, use the -ing form directly or 'on' + noun, not 'for'.

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