Buy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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buy
[baɪ ]
Definitions
shopping
Obtain in exchange for payment.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| buy |
Use 'buy' in everyday situations where someone is paying money to get something.
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| purchase |
Use 'purchase' in formal or commercial contexts, often used more in writing than in speech.
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| acquire |
Use 'acquire' in formal contexts or when the process of obtaining something is more complicated or significant.
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| procure |
Use 'procure' in formal or business contexts, specifically when indicating effort or difficulty in obtaining something.
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Examples of usage
- I need to buy some groceries for dinner.
- She decided to buy a new car.
informal
Believe that something is true.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| buy |
Use this when you are purchasing something with money or resources. It's a straightforward term for a financial transaction.
|
| believe |
Use this when you are expressing faith or trust in the truth or existence of something, often without needing physical proof. It is about personal conviction.
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| accept |
This is suitable when you are agreeing to take something that is offered or acknowledging something as true. It can also mean to come to terms with a situation.
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| trust |
This is best used when you have confidence in the reliability, truth, or ability of someone or something. It is often relational and involves a deeper level of faith.
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Examples of usage
- I don't buy his excuse for being late.
- Do you expect me to buy that story?
informal
A purchase.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| buy |
Use this word in everyday, informal situations when talking about getting goods or services with money.
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| purchase |
A formal and neutral term, suitable for both everyday and business contexts when referring to obtaining something by paying for it.
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| acquisition |
This is a more formal and business-oriented term, often used when talking about obtaining companies or assets.
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| deal |
This can imply a transaction, often highlighting the agreement or terms involved. It can also mean an advantageous bargain.
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Examples of usage
- She made a buy at the local store.
- The buy was too expensive for my budget.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'buy'
The word 'buy' originated from the Old English word 'bycgan', which meant 'to acquire in exchange for money or goods'. Over time, the word evolved to its current form with the same meaning. The concept of buying and selling has been integral to human societies for centuries, as it facilitates trade and economic activities. Today, buying is a common practice in modern consumerist culture, where individuals purchase goods and services for various purposes.