1 B2 idiomatic informal
To agree to pay for something, often as a treat or generous gesture
"Come on, it's your birthday — I'll spring for dinner tonight."
inseparable
spring for
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To agree to pay for something, especially as a treat or unexpected generous gesture
In plain English
To offer to pay for something, usually as a nice surprise for yourself or others
What does "spring for" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To decide to spend money on something as an upgrade or indulgence for yourself
"She decided to spring for business class on the long-haul flight."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To spring (jump) toward paying for something — the 'spring' implies sudden, willing action
Actually means
To offer to pay for something, usually as a nice surprise for yourself or others
Usage tip
Primarily American English. Implies a slightly impulsive or generous decision to pay for something. Often used when someone decides to upgrade or treat themselves or others unexpectedly ('I'll spring for dessert'). Informal and conversational.
Words that pair with "spring for"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
dinner tickets hotel upgrade drinks taxi
How to conjugate "spring for"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
spring for
I/you/we/they
3rd person
springs for
he/she/it
Past simple
springed for
yesterday
Past participle
springed for
have + pp
-ing form
springing for
continuous
Hear "spring for" in the wild
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Other ways to say "spring for"
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