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Meaning & use

sparring

noun·Everyday

Last updated

UK/ˈspɑːrɪŋ/
US/ˈspɑrɪŋ/

Meanings

  1. noununcountablesport

    Practice fighting in boxing or martial arts, using lighter blows than in a real match.

    Grammar: Not used with an or a plural: they did some sparring.

    Patterns

    • sparring with someone
    • a sparring partner

    The boxers did two hours of sparring before the fight.

    Sparring with a faster opponent improved his reflexes.

    Gloves and headgear are required during sparring.

  2. noununcountablefigurative

    A friendly or lively exchange of arguments, in which people test each other without real anger.

    Grammar: Used figuratively, often about debate or banter.

    Patterns

    • sparring between people
    • verbal sparring

    The two commentators enjoyed their daily sparring on the show.

    There was plenty of verbal sparring at the family dinner.

    The sparring between the candidates grew sharper as the debate went on.

Common combinations

a sparring partner
She hired a sparring partner to help her train.
verbal sparring
Their verbal sparring made the meetings entertaining.
sparring session
The boxer left after a short sparring session.
playful sparring
Playful sparring between the siblings filled the car.
political sparring
Political sparring dominated the news this week.

Synonyms and how they differ

practice fight
Practice fight is a plain description and lacks the sporting feel of sparring.
banter
Banter is light, teasing talk, while sparring suggests a more competitive exchange of arguments.
bickering
Bickering is petty and annoying arguing, whereas sparring is often seen as skilled or enjoyable.
duel
A duel is a serious contest, so it is stronger and more formal than sparring.

Opposites

agreement

Word family

spar verb
to practice boxing or argue in a lively way
sparring partner noun
a person who helps you train for a fight, or a regular debating opponent
spar noun
a bout of boxing practice or a verbal contest

Commonly confused: sparring or sparing?

sparring vs sparing

Sparing means careful not to use too much, as in sparing with salt. It is spelled with one r and has no link to fighting.

Practice

Which phrase best describes 'verbal sparring' between two colleagues?

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