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How to talk about shopping in English?

Shopping is not only a way to get the things you need, but it’s also a great way to relax and enjoy the process. In this article, we will look at important phrases and words that will help you have shopping conversations in English.

Basic phrases for talking about shopping

Planning for shopping

“I need to make a shopping list.” – Indicates the need to prepare a list of items to purchase.
“I’m trying to stick to a budget.” – Means you plan to spend money carefully.
“I’m saving up for something special.” – Hints that you’re collecting money for a particular expensive purchase.
“I need to comparison shop before deciding.” – Explains that you plan to approach your choice thoughtfully by comparing different options.
“I’ll wait for it to go on sale.” – Expresses the intention to purchase something when it’s at a more favorable price.
“I read some reviews before buying.” – Indicates thorough preparation for a purchase by studying other buyers’ reviews.
“I like to plan my shopping trips in advance.” – Demonstrates the habit of carefully preparing for shopping trips.

Discussing size and color

“What size is this in?” – You’re asking what size a particular clothing item or shoe is.
“Do you have this in a smaller/larger size?” – You’re inquiring about the availability of a needed size.
“I’m usually a size…” – You’re stating your typical size.
“This seems to run small/large.” – You’re commenting that the given size looks smaller/larger than expected.
“What colors does this come in?” – You’re asking about the available color options.
“I prefer brighter/darker shades.” – You’re expressing your color preferences.
“This color doesn’t quite suit me.” – You’re noting that the given color doesn’t look good on you.
“Could I see it in the (color) option?” – You’re requesting to see the item in a different color.

Discussing shopping experiences

“I’m really happy with my purchase.” – You’re expressing a positive impression of the purchased item.
“It wasn’t quite what I expected.” – You’re hinting that the item didn’t meet your expectations.
“The quality seems really good.” – You’re commenting on the high quality of the purchased item.
“I’m a bit disappointed to be honest.” – You’re expressing dissatisfaction with the purchase.
“It was worth every penny.” – You’re emphasizing that the purchase was worth the money spent.
“I should have tried it on first.” – You’re noting that you should have tested the item before buying.
“The seller was really helpful.” – You’re praising the seller’s good service.
“The return process was a hassle.” – You’re complaining about difficulties with returning the item.

Shopping phrases

“I’m just browsing.” – Used to indicate that you’re looking around without intending to buy anything specific at the moment.
“Do you have this in my size?” – Asking if a particular item is available in your size.
“How much does this cost?” – Asking for the price of an item.
“Is there a sale going on?” – Inquiring if there are any discounts or promotions happening.
“Can I try this on?” – Asking permission to test out clothing or shoes in the fitting room.
“I’ll take it.” – Expressing the decision to purchase something.
“Do you accept credit cards?” – Asking if the store takes credit card payments.
“Do you offer gift wrapping?” – Inquiring about gift wrapping services.
“Could I get a refund or exchange?” – Asking about the store’s return policy.
“Where can I find [specific item]?” – Seeking directions to locate a particular product within the store.

Expressions for describing shopping experiences

“I splurged on a new dress.” – Indicates spending a lot of money on an indulgence.
“I scored a great deal on these shoes.” – Refers to finding something at a discounted price.
“I’m window shopping today.” – Explains that you’re just looking at items without intending to buy.
“I’m looking for a gift for my friend.” – Expresses the purpose of your shopping trip.
“I’m on a tight budget this month.” – Indicates that you’re watching your spending.
“I couldn’t resist buying these earrings.” – Shows that you couldn’t say no to purchasing something you liked.
“I need to stock up on groceries.” – Refers to buying a supply of essential food items.

Phrases for complimenting or commenting on purchases

“That dress looks stunning on you!” – Giving a compliment about someone’s clothing choice.
“What a lovely necklace!” – Expressing admiration for a piece of jewelry.
“Those shoes are so stylish.” – Commenting on someone’s footwear.
“I love your taste in home decor.” – Praising someone’s decorating style.
“Where did you find that bag? It’s beautiful!” – Asking about the origin of a fashionable item.

Common polite phrases for shopping

“Excuse me, could you help me find…?” – Politely asking for assistance from a store employee.
“Thank you for your help!” – Showing gratitude to a salesperson.
“Sorry, I’m just looking.” – Politely declining assistance if you’re not ready to make a purchase.
“May I have a receipt, please?” – Requesting a proof of purchase.

Types of shops in English

Grocery Store/Supermarket

A shop that sells food and household goods.

Bakery

A shop that sells bread, pastries, and cakes.

Butcher Shop

A shop that sells meat and poultry.

Fishmonger/Fish Market

A shop that sells fresh fish and seafood.

Greengrocer

A shop that sells fresh fruits and vegetables.

Deli/Delicatessen

A shop that sells cheeses, cured meats, and specialty foods.

Convenience Store

A small shop that sells a range of everyday items like snacks, drinks, and toiletries.

Pharmacy/Drugstore

A shop that sells medicines, health products, and toiletries.

Clothing Store/Boutique

A shop that sells clothing and fashion accessories.

Shoe Store/Footwear Shop

A shop that specializes in selling shoes.

Bookstore

A shop that sells books and sometimes magazines or stationery.

Toy Store

A shop that sells toys and games for children.

Electronics Store

A shop that sells electronic devices like computers, smartphones, and TVs.

Furniture Store

A shop that sells furniture and home furnishings.

Jewelry Store

A shop that sells jewelry and watches.

Hardware Store

A shop that sells tools, DIY supplies, and hardware items.

Pet Store/Pet Shop

A shop that sells pet supplies, pet food, and sometimes pets themselves.

Stationery Store

A shop that sells paper, pens, office supplies, and school supplies.

Florist/Flower Shop

A shop that sells fresh flowers, bouquets, and floral arrangements.

Art Gallery/Art Supplies Store

A shop that sells art supplies or showcases and sells artwork.

Sporting Goods Store

A shop that sells sports equipment, apparel, and accessories.

Antique Shop

A shop that sells antiques and collectibles.

Music Store

A shop that sells musical instruments, sheet music, and recordings.

Liquor Store

A shop that sells alcoholic beverages.

Garden Center/Nursery

A shop that sells plants, gardening tools, and landscaping supplies.

Grocery shopping vocabulary

Groceries

Meaning: Food items and household supplies purchased regularly.
Example: “I need to buy groceries for the week.”

Produce

Meaning: Fresh fruits and vegetables.
Example: “Let’s start with the produce section to get some apples and lettuce.”

Dairy

Meaning: Products made from milk, such as cheese, yogurt, and butter.
Example: “Don’t forget to pick up a carton of milk from the dairy aisle.”

Bakery

Meaning: Section of the store where bread, pastries, and baked goods are sold.
Example: “The bakery has fresh baguettes and croissants every morning.”

Meat

Meaning: Fresh and packaged cuts of beef, chicken, pork, and other proteins.
Example: “We’re having steak for dinner, so let’s grab some meat from the butcher.”

Poultry

Meaning: Chicken and turkey meat.
Example: “I prefer to buy free-range poultry.”

Seafood

Meaning: Fresh and frozen fish and shellfish.
Example: “The seafood counter has a special on salmon fillets today.”

Canned Goods

Meaning: Food items preserved and sold in cans or jars.
Example: “We need to restock our pantry with canned beans and tomatoes.”

Frozen Foods

Meaning: Pre-packaged foods stored in freezers, such as frozen vegetables or meals.
Example: “Let’s grab some frozen pizzas for an easy dinner option.”

Condiments

Meaning: Sauces, spices, and seasonings used to flavor food.
Example: “Don’t forget to buy ketchup and mustard in the condiments aisle.”

Beverages

Meaning: Drinks, including water, juice, soda, and alcoholic beverages.
Example: “I’ll get a carton of orange juice and a case of sparkling water.”

Grains

Meaning: Foods made from wheat, rice, oats, etc., like pasta, bread, and cereal.
Example: “We’re out of rice, so let’s pick up a bag from the grains section.”

Snacks

Meaning: Small, quick foods for between meals, like chips, crackers, and nuts.
Example: “Let’s get some popcorn and pretzels for movie night snacks.”

Household Supplies

Meaning: Items used for cleaning and maintaining the home, like paper towels and detergent.
Example: “We also need to buy some household supplies like dish soap and trash bags.”

Shopping Cart/Trolley

Meaning: Wheeled basket used to carry items while shopping.
Example: “Please grab a shopping cart before we start filling it with groceries.”

Checkout Counter/Till

Meaning: Area where you pay for your items before leaving the store.
Example: “Let’s head to the checkout counter to pay for our groceries.”

Receipt

Meaning: Proof of purchase listing items bought and their prices.
Example: “Don’t forget to keep the receipt in case we need to return anything.”

English phrases to use when shopping for clothes

Here are some useful English phrases to use when shopping for clothes:

Asking for Assistance:

“Excuse me, could you help me find a dress/shirt/pair of jeans?”
“Do you have this in a different size/color?”
“Could you show me where the fitting rooms are?”

Expressing Preferences:

“I’m looking for something casual/elegant/formal.”
“I prefer lightweight fabrics for summer.”
“I like this style, but do you have something similar in a different pattern?”

Inquiring About Fit and Comfort:

“Could I try this on, please?”
“How does this dress/shirt fit? Is it true to size?”
“Is this fabric stretchy/itchy/comfortable?”

Asking About Discounts and Deals:

“Is there a sale going on today?”
“Do you offer any student/military/loyalty discounts?”
“Are there any promotions if I buy more than one item?”

Making a Decision:

“I’ll take this one, please.”
“I think I’ll go with the blue sweater.”
“I’m not sure yet. I’ll think about it and come back later.”

Asking for Additional Items:

“Could you bring me a smaller/bigger size?”
“Do you have any accessories that would go well with this outfit?”
“Can I see this dress/shirt in the mirror?”

Expressing Opinions:

“This dress looks stunning on you!”
“I love the color of this blouse.”
“The fit of these jeans is perfect.”

Requesting Assistance at Checkout:

“Could you please ring this up for me?”
“Do you accept credit cards?”
“Can I have a receipt, please?”

Being Polite and Thankful:

“Thank you for your help!”
“I appreciate your assistance.”
“Have a great day!”

Now you are ready to talk about shopping in English! Use these phrases and words to make your communication in the store easier and more pleasant. Enjoy shopping and improve your English skills.

Try the exercise and check yourself: English for Shopping: Key Vocabulary, Phrases, Exercise