Shop: meaning, definitions and examples

A general term for any place where you can buy things. Can be used for smaller places or specialized stores.

• I’m going to the shop to buy some milk.
• Let’s meet at the coffee shop on the corner.

A larger place than a shop where goods are sold. Typically used in American English to refer to supermarkets, department stores, or big-box stores.

• I need to go to the store to get groceries.
• He works at an electronics store.

A small, fancy shop that sells fashionable clothes or other items. Often implies exclusivity and higher prices.

• She bought that dress at a little boutique downtown.
• The boutique specializes in handmade jewelry.

An outdoor or indoor space where multiple vendors sell goods, often including fresh produce, crafts, and more. Can refer to farmers' markets or larger commercial markets.

• We visit the farmers' market every Saturday.
• I bought these spices at the local market.

This word is used when someone is actively looking for items to buy, usually in physical stores or online. It implies exploring or browsing through various options.

• I plan to shop for a new dress this weekend.
• I enjoy shopping at the local farmers' market.

This word is straightforward and used when someone actually makes a purchase. It is direct and simple.

• I need to buy some groceries.
• He bought a new phone yesterday.

This word is very similar to 'buy' but is often used in more formal or written contexts. It is considered slightly more formal.

• She decided to purchase a new laptop for work.
• The company purchased new office equipment.

This word is often used when someone is casually looking through items without a strong intention to buy. They might be exploring or just looking around.

• I like to browse the internet for new recipes.
• She browsed through the bookstore without buying anything.