spare
verb (used with object)
to refrain from harming or destroying; leave uninjured; forbear to punish, hurt, or destroy.
has been sparing
-
present perfect progressiveof spare (3rd person singular).present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The ministry has been sparing with details on how many collections it has had a hand in evacuating, citing wartime exigencies.
From New York Times ● Aug. 8, 2022
He has been sparing with his major policy speeches.
From New York Times ● Oct. 17, 2017
"Ever since the Chinese citizen was held hostage by the Islamic State group, the Chinese government has been sparing no effort in rescuing him," Hong said.
From US News ● Nov. 18, 2015
Beyond these, the U.S. has been sparing in awarding even part-time hero status to its Presidents.
From Time Magazine Archive
He who writes it must have, also, graphic and narrative powers—a special gift, of which nature has been sparing to me.
From In the School-Room Chapters in the Philosophy of Education by John S. (John Seely) Hart
