Browsing: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when looking through items with no specific goal, often leisurely.

• I was just browsing through the books at the library
• She spent the afternoon browsing various online stores

Use when casually navigating the internet or switching through TV channels, often with no specific aim.

• He was surfing the web to kill some time
• She enjoys surfing through TV channels on the weekend

Use when investigating or examining something thoroughly, often to learn or discover.

• They spent the day exploring the new city
• Scientists are exploring new ways to treat the disease

Use when looking for something specific, with a clear intention.

• He is searching for his lost keys
• She spent hours searching the internet for information on the topic

Typically refers to looking through something casually, often without a specific goal in mind. Commonly used in contexts like shopping, reading, or using the internet.

• I was just browsing through the magazine section.
• She spent the evening browsing online stores for shoes.

Primarily used for looking through internet content in a more casual or random manner. Can also imply switching between channels on TV.

• He spent hours surfing the web last night.
• She is surfing through the channels to find something to watch.

Used when investigating or traveling through a place or topic in detail. It implies a sense of discovery and thoroughness.

• They spent the day exploring the city.
• He's been exploring various career options.

Implies looking for something specific or with a particular goal. Typically involves more effort and purpose than browsing.

• I've been searching for my keys all morning.
• She's searching for information on the topic for her report.