a spell of (something)
Meaning(s)
1. a period of time during which something occurs or lasts
Popularity
Medium
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
a spell of good weather
Analysis
This expression is usually used when discussing the weather, an illness, or a period of time spent living somewhere. For that reason it is most commonly heard in a social context. However, it can also refer to time spent working somewhere or at something. A 'spell of something,' is generally taken to mean a brief period of time, so you would need to prefix it with the word 'long' if making reference to a reasonably or relatively lengthy period of time. A similar expression is 'a bout of something.'
Social Examples (Basic)
- I can't believe what a fantastic spell of weather we've been having! You wouldn't think it was October.
- Adam spent quite a long spell in Madrid. That's why his Spanish is so good.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- After a brief spell working the till, I was moved to the back office.
- I had a couple of spells at that firm in the 90's, but never went back to work there again after that.