Post 134: Third Wheel vs. Spare Tire

'Third wheel' is a term often used when describing the third person in a group, that was really meant to be a pair. Like when someone tags along with their friend on their friend's date. But there is a difference between being a third wheel and a spare tire.

Third wheels are often unintentionally so. Maybe there were supposed to be four people and someone cancelled. Maybe it was supposed to just be a three person group, but two people in the group are pairing up and making the third feel left out (this happens unintentionally sometime in activities that require pairs).

A spare tire is someone that is intentionally invited to an awkward gathering as backup. For example, Mary has been set up on a blind date and asks her friend to come with her, in case the guy bails.

The term can also be used when people are put on the 'back burner'. For example, when a friend comes to you when they are fighting with their best friend and acts like you're their best friend, but as soon as they stop fighting it is like you basically disappear.

Neither are good.

But I think in some ways, being a 'spare tire' is worse. Because like a real spare tire, it is only when needed that it is appreciated.

That's it for this post.