B1verbemotionsrelationships
US/spɔɪl/
UK/spɔɪl/
to make something less good or enjoyable; also, to give a child too much of what they want
In context
The heavy rain spoiled our plans for a picnic by the lake.
Please don't tell me how the film ends; you'll spoil it for me.
Grandparents often spoil their grandchildren with sweets and new toys.
Words that go with spoil
verb + noun
- spoil the funI don't want to spoil the fun, but we need to leave now.
- spoil the viewThe new tower block completely spoils the view of the river.
- spoil a childBuying everything he asks for will only spoil the child.
- spoil the endingMy friend spoiled the ending of the series in the group chat.
adverb + verb
- completely spoilOne rude waiter completely spoiled our evening.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
Don't spoil me the movie!Correct: Don't spoil the movie for me!