Space vs spare – two words that sound similar but have different meanings. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two words and when to use each one.
We should define the two words. Space refers to a continuous area or expanse that is free, available, or unoccupied. Spare, on the other hand, means additional to what is required for ordinary use. It can also refer to something that is not currently in use but kept available for future use.
So, which of these words is the proper one to use? The answer is that it depends on the context. If you are referring to an area or expanse, then space is the correct word to use. If you are referring to something that is extra or additional, then spare is the right word to use.
Now that we have established the meanings of these two words, let’s delve deeper into their usage and explore some examples in different contexts.
Define Space
Space is a concept that refers to the physical area or room occupied by an object or entity. It is the three-dimensional expanse in which all matter exists and moves. Space can be measured in terms of length, width, and height, and is often quantified in units such as meters, feet, or kilometers.
In addition to its physical properties, space can also refer to the abstract idea of an area that is unoccupied or available for use. This can include a designated area for a specific purpose, such as a parking space, or a more general area that is free from obstruction or clutter.
Space is a fundamental concept in many fields, including physics, astronomy, architecture, and design. It plays a crucial role in determining the layout and functionality of physical spaces, as well as the behavior and movement of objects within those spaces.
Define Spare
Spare is a term that can have multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. At its most basic level, spare refers to something that is extra or unused, and is often kept in reserve for future use.
In the context of physical objects, spare can refer to a backup or replacement part that is kept on hand in case of failure or damage to the original. This can include spare tires for vehicles, spare batteries for electronic devices, or spare parts for machinery.
Another common use of the term spare is in reference to time. In this context, spare refers to time that is not already allocated to a specific task or activity. This can include free time that is available for leisure or relaxation, or extra time that can be used to complete unfinished work or tackle new projects.
Spare can also be used to describe a minimalist or uncluttered aesthetic, in which only the essentials are present and excess items are eliminated. This can apply to physical spaces, such as a spare bedroom that is kept free from unnecessary furnishings, or to personal possessions, such as a minimalist wardrobe that contains only a few versatile items.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
In the English language, words can have similar meanings but different connotations. This can lead to confusion when it comes to choosing the right word for a particular context. Two such words are space and spare. While they are often used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings and should be used appropriately in a sentence.
How To Use “Space” In A Sentence
Space refers to an area or an expanse that is free, unoccupied, or available. It can also refer to the physical universe beyond the Earth’s atmosphere. Here are some examples of how to use space in a sentence:
- She needs some space to think about her decision.
- The new office has more space for employees.
- The spacecraft is traveling through outer space.
As you can see, space is used to refer to a physical area or an abstract concept. It can be used as a noun or a verb, and can be modified by adjectives or adverbs to indicate size, distance, or availability.
How To Use “Spare” In A Sentence
Spare, on the other hand, refers to something that is extra, unused, or available in case of need. It can also refer to time that is not occupied by work or other activities. Here are some examples of how to use spare in a sentence:
- Do you have a spare pen I can borrow?
- He has a spare tire in case of a flat.
- I don’t have any spare time to watch TV.
As you can see, spare is used to refer to something that is additional or available for use. It can be used as an adjective or a verb, and can be modified by adverbs or prepositional phrases to indicate purpose or availability.
More Examples Of Space & Spare Used In Sentences
When it comes to using the words “space” and “spare” in sentences, there are a variety of ways in which they can be utilized. Below are some examples of how these words can be used in different contexts.
Examples Of Using “Space” In A Sentence
- There’s not enough space in the closet for all of my clothes.
- The new office has plenty of space for all of the employees.
- I need some space to think before making a decision.
- The spaceship traveled through space for years before reaching its destination.
- Can you make some space for me on the couch?
- The park has a lot of open space for children to play.
- I’m going to need some space to set up my equipment.
- The hotel room had a spacious balcony with a great view.
- There’s not enough space in the car for all of our luggage.
- The artist left some negative space in the painting to create contrast.
Examples Of Using “Spare” In A Sentence
- I have a spare key in case I lose the original one.
- Do you have a spare pen I could borrow?
- He always keeps a spare tire in the trunk of his car.
- We have some spare time before the meeting starts.
- She always brings a spare pair of shoes to work in case her feet hurt.
- The mechanic had to order a spare part for the car.
- Can you spare a few dollars for the homeless shelter?
- He had a spare room in his house that he used as an office.
- She keeps a spare phone charger in her purse at all times.
- The teacher gave us a spare worksheet in case we made a mistake.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to using the words “space” and “spare,” many people tend to use them interchangeably, but there are distinct differences between the two. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using these words:
Using “Space” When You Mean “Spare”
One of the most common mistakes people make is using “space” when they really mean “spare.” While the two words may seem similar, they have different meanings.
For example, if you say “I have some space tires in the trunk,” you are actually saying that you have some tires that are empty or have air space inside. What you really mean to say is “I have some spare tires in the trunk,” which means you have extra tires in case of a flat or blowout.
To avoid this mistake, always double-check that you are using the correct word. If you’re not sure, look up the definition or ask someone for clarification.
Using “Spare” When You Mean “Space”
Another common mistake is using “spare” when you really mean “space.” This mistake is less common, but it can still cause confusion.
For example, if you say “I need some spare in my suitcase,” you are actually saying that you need some extra items in your suitcase. What you really mean to say is “I need some space in my suitcase,” which means you need some room or free area to fit your items.
To avoid this mistake, always think about the context of your sentence and make sure the word you’re using makes sense. If you’re not sure, try using a different word or rephrasing your sentence.
Offering Tips On How To Avoid Making These Mistakes In The Future
To avoid these common mistakes, here are some tips:
- Double-check the definition of the word you want to use
- Think about the context of your sentence
- Try using a different word or rephrasing your sentence if you’re not sure
By following these tips, you can avoid using “space” and “spare” interchangeably and ensure that your writing is clear and concise.
Context Matters
Choosing between the words “space” and “spare” can be a matter of context. Depending on the situation, one word may be more appropriate than the other. Understanding the nuances of each word can help you make the right choice.
Space
The word “space” can refer to a physical area or the amount of room available. In some contexts, it may also refer to the vast expanse beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Here are some examples of how “space” might be used:
- A real estate agent might advertise a property as having “plenty of space for a growing family.”
- A designer might talk about creating “negative space” in a room to make it feel more open and airy.
- An astronomer might study the “space weather” that affects Earth’s magnetic field.
Spare
The word “spare” can refer to something that is extra or unused. In some contexts, it may also refer to being frugal or austere. Here are some examples of how “spare” might be used:
- A mechanic might keep a “spare tire” in the trunk of a car in case of a flat.
- A writer might have “spare time” to work on personal projects outside of their regular job.
- A minimalist might prefer a “spare” aesthetic with clean lines and minimal decoration.
As you can see, the choice between “space” and “spare” can depend on the context in which they are used. By understanding the nuances of each word, you can choose the right one to convey your intended meaning.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the rules for using space and spare are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where they might not apply. It’s important to be aware of these exceptions to avoid confusion and ensure that your writing is clear and concise.
1. Technical Writing
In technical writing, the rules for using space and spare may be different from those used in everyday writing. For example, in computer programming, a “space” refers to a character used to separate words or commands, while a “spare” may refer to an additional component or part that is kept on hand in case of failure.
In technical writing, it’s important to use the correct terminology to avoid confusion and ensure that your writing is accurate and precise.
2. Creative Writing
In creative writing, there may be more flexibility when it comes to using space and spare. Writers may choose to use unconventional spacing or capitalization for stylistic purposes, or to create a certain mood or tone.
For example, a poet may use extra space between words to create a sense of pause or breathlessness, while a novelist may use spare descriptions to create a sense of mystery or suspense.
3. Regional Differences
Finally, it’s important to note that there may be regional differences in the use of space and spare. For example, in British English, it is common to use a single space after a period, while in American English, it is more common to use two spaces.
Similarly, in some parts of the world, the word “spare” may be used more commonly than “space” to refer to extra or unused items.
While the rules for using space and spare are generally straightforward, it’s important to be aware of any exceptions that may apply. By understanding these exceptions, you can ensure that your writing is clear, accurate, and appropriate for your intended audience.
Practice Exercises
Now that we have a better understanding of the differences between “space” and “spare,” let’s put that knowledge into practice with some exercises. These exercises will help readers improve their understanding and use of these two words in sentences. We have included answer keys or explanations for each exercise to make sure that you can check your work and learn from your mistakes.
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank
Instructions: Fill in the blank with either “space” or “spare” to complete the sentence correctly.
| Sentence | Answer |
|---|---|
| I need some __________ in my closet for my new clothes. | space |
| Do you have a __________ tire in your car? | spare |
| We have plenty of __________ for everyone at the party. | space |
| Can you __________ a few minutes to help me with this project? | spare |
| The __________ shuttle is leaving in five minutes. | space |
Exercise 2: Multiple Choice
Instructions: Choose the correct word (“space” or “spare”) to fill in the blank.
- Do you have any __________ in your luggage for souvenirs?
- A. space
- B. spare
- A. space
- B. spare
- A. space
- B. spare
- A. space
- B. spare
- A. space
- B. spare
Answer Key:
| Question Number | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1 | A |
| 2 | B |
| 3 | A |
| 4 | B |
| 5 | A |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the difference between space and spare is often overlooked, but it is important to use these words correctly in order to convey the intended meaning. Here are some key takeaways from this article:
Space
- Refers to an area or gap between two objects or within an object.
- Can also refer to the physical universe beyond the Earth’s atmosphere.
- Can be used as a verb to mean providing or allocating room or time for something.
Spare
- Refers to having an extra or unused item, or to having time or resources available that are not being used.
- Can also mean to refrain from harming or punishing someone.
- Can be used as a verb to mean to give something to someone as a gift or to save something for future use.
By understanding the differences between space and spare, you can avoid confusion and ensure that your writing is clear and concise. However, language is constantly evolving, and there may be new nuances to these words that emerge in the future.
Therefore, it is important to continue learning about grammar and language use in order to stay up-to-date and communicate effectively. Whether you are a professional writer or simply someone who wants to improve their communication skills, there are many resources available to help you on your journey.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.