Shopping: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when you are talking about the activity of visiting stores to buy items or just to look at them. It often implies a more casual, everyday activity.

• She went shopping for new clothes
• We spent the afternoon shopping at the mall

This term is often used in formal business contexts or when referring to more substantial or official transactions.

• The company is purchasing new equipment
• She handled the purchasing for the office supplies

This is the most common and straightforward term for exchanging money for goods or services. It's neutral and can be used in both casual and formal situations.

• She is buying groceries for dinner
• They are thinking about buying a new house

This term fits more formal situations or when you are obtaining something significant or valuable, often over a period of time or through some effort.

• He is acquiring new skills through his job
• They are focused on acquiring new companies to expand their business

This is a duplicate entry and the same as the first entry. It encompasses the general activity of going out or browsing online to make purchases.

• We spent the weekend shopping for furniture.
• I am planning to go shopping this afternoon.

This phrase is used to describe shopping with the primary purpose of improving one's mood, rather than out of necessity. It has a somewhat humorous or light-hearted connotation.

• After a stressful week, she indulged in some retail therapy.
• He believes in the power of retail therapy to lift his spirits.

This is a more formal term often used in business or official contexts when referring to the act of buying something.

• The company is purchasing new equipment.
• He is in charge of purchasing office supplies.

This term is specifically focused on the action of acquiring something by paying money for it. It is often used in both formal and everyday contexts.

• He's buying a new car tomorrow.
• I am considering buying this book.

Duplicate entry for the general activity of going to stores. Usage context similar to the first entry.

• We went shopping for holiday decorations
• She spends her Saturdays shopping at the mall

A colloquial term used to describe shopping as a way to improve one's mood or reduce stress. It highlights the emotional aspect of shopping.

• After a rough week at work, she indulged in some retail therapy
• He finds retail therapy to be a great stress reliever

Often used in more formal or business-like situations. It implies a more deliberate and considered acquisition.

• They are purchasing new equipment for the office
• The company is purchasing a rival business

Refers specifically to the act of obtaining goods or services in exchange for money. It is the general verb used for purchasing items.

• He is buying a new car next month
• She was busy buying gifts for her family