6 synonyms and better words for “spend,” each with its precise meaning and an example so you pick the one that actually fits, not just the nearest match.
To pay out or use up a resource deliberately and often with effort.
“She expended every last dollar on the renovation, and the results were breathtaking.”
Best for: Slightly formal; works well in writing that wants weight without pretension.
To pay out money from a fund or treasury, typically in an official capacity.
“The foundation disbursed millions to struggling artists that year.”
Best for: Best suited to financial, legal, or institutional contexts.
To expend money or resources in generous, extravagant amounts.
“He lavished a fortune on rare wines he barely touched.”
Best for: Implies excess or indulgence; strong emotional color, great for narrative writing.
To waste money or resources recklessly and without return.
“They squandered the inheritance on hollow promises and bad advice.”
Best for: Carries a judgmental tone; use when waste and regret are implied.
To gradually scatter or fritter away resources until nothing remains.
“Over a decade of careless living, he dissipated his grandfather's entire estate.”
Best for: Literary and slightly melancholic; suits long-form prose or reflective writing.
To remove or send away one's property or assets, effectively spending or dispersing them.
“He had quietly eloigned his wealth across obscure accounts long before the trial began.”
Best for: Archaic legal term; deploy sparingly for striking, erudite effect in historical or formal fiction.
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