Grocery: meaning, definitions and examples

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grocery

 

[ ˈɡroʊsəri ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

shopping list

groceries are food and other goods that are sold by a grocer or supermarket. They include fresh produce, canned goods, dairy products, and household items.

Synonyms

food, provisions, supplies.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
grocery

Commonly used to refer to a shop where food and other household items are sold or the items purchased from such a shop.

  • I need to stop by the grocery to pick up some milk.
  • She works at the local grocery.
food

General term for any substance consumed to provide nutritional support for the body.

  • We need to buy some food for the party.
  • I'm cooking food for dinner.

Examples of usage

  • We need to buy groceries for the week.
  • She filled her cart with groceries for the party.
Context #2 | Noun

grocery store

a grocery is also a store that sells food and other goods. It is usually smaller than a supermarket and may specialize in certain types of products.

Synonyms

corner shop, food store, market.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
grocery

Commonly refers to a store that sells a wide range of food items and household goods. It's a general term used for both small and large stores where people buy everyday necessities.

  • I need to go to the grocery to buy some milk and bread
food store

A broad term for any store that specializes in selling food products. This can include larger supermarkets, specialty stores, or smaller markets.

  • We went to the food store to pick up fresh vegetables for our dinner
market

Usually refers to a place where multiple vendors sell various items, often including fresh produce, meats, and sometimes crafts. Markets can be open-air or within buildings and are often seen as more traditional or community-centered spaces.

  • Every Saturday, we visit the market to buy fresh fruits and see local artisans
corner shop

Often a small, local store located in residential neighborhoods. These shops typically offer a limited selection of essential items and are convenient for quick purchases.

  • I'm just heading to the corner shop to get some snacks for the movie tonight

Examples of usage

  • I prefer to shop at the local grocery for fresh produce.
  • The grocery on the corner is convenient for last-minute items.

Translations

Translations of the word "grocery" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mercearia

🇮🇳 किराना

🇩🇪 Lebensmittelgeschäft

🇮🇩 toko kelontong

🇺🇦 бакалія

🇵🇱 sklep spożywczy

🇯🇵 食料品店

🇫🇷 épicerie

🇪🇸 tienda de comestibles

🇹🇷 bakkal

🇰🇷 식료품점

🇸🇦 بقالة

🇨🇿 potraviny

🇸🇰 potraviny

🇨🇳 杂货店

🇸🇮 živilska trgovina

🇮🇸 matvörubúð

🇰🇿 азық-түлік дүкені

🇬🇪 სურსათის მაღაზია

🇦🇿 ərzaq mağazası

🇲🇽 tienda de abarrotes

Etymology

The term 'grocery' originated from the Middle English word 'grosserie' which meant a wholesale grocer's shop. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to both the goods sold by a grocer and the store itself. The concept of grocery stores dates back to ancient times, with markets and merchants selling food and provisions. Today, groceries are an essential part of daily life, providing a wide variety of food and household items for consumers.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,436 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.