squander it

[/ˈskwɑːndər ɪt/]
verb phrase
desperdiçar
1. to waste money, time, or resources carelessly or extravagantly
Don't squander it on things you don't need.
Não desperdice em coisas que você não precisa.
2. to fail to use an opportunity effectively
He squandered it by not studying for the exam.
Ele desperdiçou a oportunidade não estudando para a prova.
In both American and Brazilian cultures, 'squander it' carries a moral undertone of irresponsibility. In Brazil, it's commonly used in family and educational contexts warning against waste. In the USA, it's frequently used in financial and business contexts. The phrase emphasizes personal accountability for poor resource management.
NYC Slang
blow it
Synonyms / Sinônimos
waste itthrow awayblow itfritter awaymisuse it
Antonyms / Antônimos
save itconserve itpreserve itinvest ituse wisely

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
desperdiçar
most common and standard usage
Rio de Janeiro
jogar fora
colloquial variant meaning 'throw away'
São Paulo
desperdiçar
standard formal usage
Portugal
dissipar
more formal alternative; also uses desperdiçar

Related Words

wasteextravagancemismanagementprofligacyopportunity

Related Idioms & Phrases

squander away
squander on
don't squander the opportunity
squander one's talents
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