spend time
A native Thai recording for this word is on the way. Please check back soon.
- 1 spend time、devote time
- 2 take time、require time
This expression centers on the idea of using time. It can describe either someone spending time on something or an activity taking a certain amount of time.
spend time、devote time
Describes a person spending or devoting time to an activity, subject, or other person.
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เขาใช้เวลากับครอบครัว khǎw cháy weelaa kàp khrɔ̂ɔpkhrua He spends time with his family. เขาใช้เวลากับครอบครัว details
take time、require time
Describes an activity, trip, or process requiring a certain amount of time to be completed.
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งานนี้ต้องใช้เวลา ŋaan níi tɔ̂ŋ cháy weelaa This job takes time. งานนี้ต้องใช้เวลา details
Learning notes
Explanation
ใช้เวลา combines ใช้ (“use”) and เวลา (“time”), so its core image is literally “use time.” When a person is the focus, it means spending time on an activity, matter, or person. A common pattern is ใช้เวลา + duration + activity. กับ can introduce the person or subject receiving that time, as in ใช้เวลากับครอบครัว (“spend time with one's family”). When an activity, trip, or process is the focus, it means that something takes time. ใช้เวลาเท่าไร is a standard way to ask how long something takes. The expression is neutral and common in both everyday conversation and more formal explanations.
Usage
It is commonly used to discuss travel time, time spent studying or working, and the duration required for procedures, cooking, or treatment. It is also natural when talking about time spent with family or friends.
Caution
ใช้เวลา does not itself mean “waste time”; use เสียเวลา for that idea. A duration normally follows it directly, without a preposition, as in ใช้เวลาสองชั่วโมง (“take/spend two hours”). It is also not used to ask what time it is.
Differences from similar words
1 spend time synonyms
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ทุ่มเวลา means to devote substantial time and effort to a valued goal. ใช้เวลา is more neutral and can simply mean spending time, without implying strong commitment.