Spur vs. Spurn – Which is Correct?

While “spur” and “spurn” sound somewhat alike, they possess distinctly different meanings and uses. “Spur” primarily means to urge on, stimulate, or propel forward, or it can refer to a sharp projection. In contrast, “spurn” means to reject with disdain or contempt. Both are correct English words, but their interchangeability would lead to significant miscommunication.

Spur or Spurn – Which is Correct?

Both “spur” and “spurn” are correct and valid words in American English, but they convey entirely different actions and intentions. The core difference lies in their direction and emotional tone. “Spur” is about forward motion, encouragement, or a physical stimulus, often with a neutral or positive connotation. “Spurn,” on the other hand, is about forceful rejection, often implying contempt or disdain, and carries a distinctly negative tone.

The Best Trick to Remember the Difference

To remember the difference, think of the letter ‘U’ in each word. For spur, think of “urge” or “upward” movement – it pushes things forward or upward. For spurn, think of “unacceptable” or “unwanted” – it pushes things away because they are rejected. Another trick: A “spur” on a boot makes a horse go, while to “spurn” something is to turn away from it.

Word	Part of Speech	Meaning	Example
Spur	Verb, Noun	To encourage or stimulate; a sharp device on a rider’s heel	The promise of a bonus will spur employees to work harder. / He wore spurs on his boots.
Spurn	Verb	To reject with disdain or contempt	She spurned his advances with a cold stare.

How to Use Spur

The word “spur” can function as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to stimulate, encourage, or incite someone or something to action, often implying a push or acceleration. It can be used in both positive contexts (e.g., to spur innovation) and negative ones (e.g., to spur a conflict). As a noun, a “spur” refers to a sharp device worn on a rider’s heel to urge a horse forward, or a projecting part like a mountain ridge or a side track from a main railway line.

Example 1: The recent economic growth is expected to spur further investment in technology.

Example 2: His harsh words only served to spur her determination to succeed.

Example 3: The hikers followed the narrow mountain spur to reach the summit.

What are the different forms of Spur?

As a verb, “spur” follows regular conjugation rules:

• Base form: spur (e.g., “They spur growth.”)
• Third-person singular present: spurs (e.g., “He spurs the horse.”)
• Past tense and past participle: spurred (e.g., “The news spurred a rally.” / “The market was spurred by optimism.”)
• Present participle: spurring (e.g., “The company is spurring innovation.”)

As a noun, “spur” has a regular plural form:

• Singular: spur (e.g., “a sharp spur”)
• Plural: spurs (e.g., “a pair of spurs”)

Etymology of the word Spur

The word “spur” comes from Old English, where the noun “spura” referred to the pointed implement on a rider’s heel. The verb “spyrran” meant to kick or strike with the heel, or to urge on. Its roots are Germanic, related to the concept of the foot or a track.

While ‘spur’ adheres to regular conjugation, understanding the nuances of verb forms is crucial, especially when considering choices like Spelled vs. Spelt.

How to Use Spurn

“Spurn” is primarily used as a verb, meaning to reject with disdain or contempt. It implies a strong, often haughty refusal or a turning away from something perceived as unworthy. The word carries a distinctly negative and often dramatic connotation, highlighting the severity of the rejection. It is not commonly used as a noun in modern English, though historical usage exists.

Example 1: She chose to spurn his generous offer, believing it was offered with ulterior motives.

Example 2: Many critics initially spurned the artist’s unconventional work, only to praise it years later.

Example 3: He felt deeply hurt when his family seemed to spurn his attempts at reconciliation.

What are the different forms of Spurn?

As a verb, “spurn” follows regular conjugation rules:

• Base form: spurn (e.g., “They spurn unfair practices.”)
• Third-person singular present: spurns (e.g., “She spurns all unsolicited advice.”)
• Past tense and past participle: spurned (e.g., “He spurned the peace treaty.” / “The proposal was spurned.”)
• Present participle: spurning (e.g., “He is spurning all attempts at friendship.”)

Etymology of the word Spurn

The word “spurn” also originates from Old English, specifically from “spurnan,” which meant “to kick, strike, or reject.” This etymology clearly links to its modern meaning of rejection, often with a sense of contempt or dismissal, as if kicking something away.

Related Concepts

Understanding broader linguistic concepts can help clarify the distinctions between words like “spur” and “spurn,” especially when they sound similar.

• Near Homophones: “Spur” and “spurn” are examples of near homophones, words that sound somewhat alike but have different spellings and completely different meanings. Confusing them is a common error stemming from phonetic similarity.
• Verbs of Action vs. Reaction: “Spur” is a verb of action, often initiating or accelerating a process. “Spurn,” conversely, is a verb of reaction, specifically one of forceful rejection or disdain towards something.

Examples from Media and Literature

• “The promise of a new life in the West did much to spur the pioneers on their arduous journey.” (Historical context, encouraging action)
• “In a fit of pique, she chose to spurn the lavish gift, throwing it back at the sender’s feet.” (Literary, forceful rejection)
• “The company’s CEO hoped that the recent acquisition would spur innovation across all departments.” (Business news, stimulating progress)
• “Despite his heartfelt apology, she continued to spurn his efforts to reconcile, her anger too deep to overcome.” (Drama, persistent rejection)
• “The unexpected discovery of ancient artifacts could spur new archaeological expeditions in the region.” (Scientific context, prompting new ventures)

Practice Exercises

Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

1. The company hoped the new incentive program would ______ employees to achieve higher sales targets.
2. Feeling insulted, she ______ his offer to pay for her meal.
3. A sudden change in leadership can often ______ significant shifts in company policy.
4. He couldn’t believe she would ______ such a thoughtful and sincere gesture.
5. The discovery of new resources might ______ a boom in the local economy.

Answer Key

1. spur
2. spurned
3. spur
4. spurn
5. spur

Spur Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Encourage (verb)	To give support, confidence, or hope to (someone).
Stimulate (verb)	To encourage development or activity in (a specific area).
Prompt (verb)	To cause or bring about (an action or feeling).
Incentive (noun)	A thing that motivates or encourages one to do something.
Catalyst (noun)	A person or thing that precipitates an event or change.

Spurn Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Reject (verb)	To dismiss as inadequate, unacceptable, or faulty.
Disdain (verb)	To consider to be unworthy of one’s consideration.
Scorn (verb)	To feel or express contempt or derision for.
Rebuff (verb)	To reject (someone or something) in an abrupt or ungracious manner.
Repudiate (verb)	To refuse to accept or be associated with.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Can “spur” have a negative connotation?
Yes, while often used positively, “spur” can also refer to inciting something negative, such as “to spur a conflict” or “to spur a riot,” meaning to provoke or instigate.

Question 2: Is “spurn” a strong word for rejection?
Absolutely. “Spurn” implies a rejection that is not merely a refusal, but one done with contempt, disdain, or a sense of superiority, making it a powerful word for dismissal.

Question 3: Are “spur” and “spurn” interchangeable in any context?
No, “spur” and “spurn” are never interchangeable. Their meanings are diametrically opposed: one encourages or propels, while the other rejects. Using one in place of the other would drastically alter the meaning of a sentence.

Conclusion

Distinguishing between “spur” and “spurn” is essential for clear and precise communication. Remember that “spur” is about encouragement, stimulation, or a physical projection, driving things forward. “Spurn,” on the other hand, is about a forceful and contemptuous rejection, pushing things away. Mastering these distinct meanings will enhance your vocabulary and prevent common misunderstandings.

Pro Tip: Always double-check words that sound similar but have different spellings. Misusing “spur” for “spurn” or vice-versa can completely reverse your intended message and potentially undermine your professional reputation as a communicator.