Shopping time in English. Topic SHOPS AND SHOPPING. Figurative expressions from the field of shopping

Let's take a look at the topic of shopping. The word "shopping" came to us from the English language and means "the process of making purchases" or "shopping". For language learners I have prepared tee shopping on English language with translation into Russian.

Our people mean by shopping shopping to buy new clothes or something like that. In English, the concept of "shopping" is broader. "I go for a shopping" means "I'm going shopping." Shopping can be everyday: buying bread or milk in a supermarket is also shopping for the British.

From the article you will learn:

Shopping vocabulary

• shopping list - shopping list
  
• purchases - purchases
• discount card - discount card
• sale - sale
• a self-service shop - self-service shop
• shopping mall
• everyday essentials - everyday essentials
• food stuffs
• bakery department - bakery department
• dairy - dairy products / dairy department
• butcher - meat department
• department store - department store
• ready-made clothes - ready-made clothes
• ready-made food - cooked food
  
• entertainment - entertainment

My every day shopping

When we want to buy something, we go to a shop.

Everyday shopping is rather traditional: some white and brown bread, milk, butter, sugar, salt, eggs, sausages. But it’s not necessary to visit different provisional shops such as bakery or butchery to buy food for the family because we could buy foodstuffs in a supermarket. Different goods are sold under one roof, so customers can save their time having all goods bought in no time.

Well, shopping is no fun any longer, but my daily duty. I dream to be an economist. I try to be rational and economical. I try to follow some steps. First of all it is necessary to make a shopping list of what we need. Then we should calculate how much our purchases would cost and take this very sum of money with us. The third rule tells that we shouldn't be hungry while shopping, a hungry person buys the things his or her stomach dictates to buy, not thinking about prices or rational nutrition. And we shouldn't go shopping immediately after we have got our salary, when we feel impressed by a large sum of money and don't think it's for a long month to last.

Every day before leaving for school I look around the kitchen to see what we need. And on my way from school I drop into the nearest supermarket, and buy bread and other everyday essentials. Every Friday evening my Mum and I examin our kitchen more carefully as Saturday is our shopping day. The shopping list is rather long, so we both go shopping.

The method of shopping is very simple. In a self-service shop a customer goes from counter to counter selecting and putting into a basket the goods he wants to buy. It’s absolutely necessary to check the dates before which this or that foodstuff should be used, not to buy something of bad quality. Then a customer takes the basket to the check-out counter where the prices of the purchases are added up. After paying money to the cashier the customer can get his purchases.

Mum and I go to the supermarket where we can buy different things at once: fish, bread, sausages, tea, sugar, spices, eggs. I think that a bakery department is among the best in the shop as it has a rich choice of biscuits. And what is more importable they are always fresh and tasty.

Another department of the supermarket, which we have to visit, is a dairy. At the dairy we buy milk, cream, yogurt, cheese, butter and other products. My Mum and I are regular customers at the greengrocer's where potatoes, carrots, cabbage, cucumbers, tomatoes, oranges, apples and other fruits and vegetables. In summer we prefer buying fruits, berries and vegetables at the nearest market.

Sometimes I have to go to a department store. I can buy there fabrics and footwear, glass, ready-made clothes and cosmetics, toys and electric appliances, furniture and sport goods, cameras and films, and what not.

At the butcher's there's a wide choice of meat such as beef, pork, mutton, chicken and turkey. It’s really a great skill to choose a piece of meat you need, for soup or for chops or shashlyk, so it’s my Mum who is to buy meat.

I like shopping. It gets some element of fun and entertainment.

My daily shopping translation from English to Russian)

When we want to buy something, we go to the store.

Every day shopping is quite traditional: white and brown bread, milk, butter, sugar, salt, eggs, sausages. But it is not necessary to visit shops for this, such as a bakery or a butcher shop, to buy food for the family, because we can buy food in the supermarket. Quite a lot of goods can be bought in one place, so people save their time in this way and do not spend a lot of time.

So, shopping for me is no longer entertainment, but my daily duty. My dream is to be an economist. I try to be rational and economical. I try to follow a few points. First, you need to write a list of necessary purchases. Then we must sum up how much it will cost us and how much we need to take with us. The third rule is that purchases should not be made on an empty stomach, because a hungry person buys what hunger dictates to him, without thinking about prices and healthy food. And we should not immediately go to the store as soon as we receive a paycheck, when we are overwhelmed with feelings about a large amount of money and do not stretch the paycheck over many months.

Every day, before I leave for school, I look around the kitchen and see what we need. And on my way home from school, I stop by the nearest supermarket and buy bread and other necessary things. Every Friday evening, my mom and I take a closer look at the shopping process. The shopping list turns out to be long and we both go to the store.

The method I use is very simple. In a self-service store, the customer goes from counter to counter, choosing something and putting the products they want to buy into the cart. Be sure to look at the production date or expiration date so as not to buy something of poor quality. Then the buyer takes the basket and comes to the checkout to punch the products put in the basket. After the money goes to the cashier, the customer can collect their purchases.

Mom and I go to the supermarket where we can buy various things: fish, bread, sausages, tea, sugar, spices, eggs. I think the bakery department is among the best in the store as it has a wide range of cakes. And most importantly, they are always fresh and tasty.

Another section of the supermarket that I visit often is the dairy section. In the dairy department I buy milk, sour cream, yogurt, cheese, butter and other products. My mom and I regularly shop at the grocery store for potatoes, carrots, cabbage, cucumbers, tomatoes, oranges, apples, and other fruits and vegetables. In summer, we prefer to buy fruits, berries and vegetables at the nearest market.

Sometimes I go to special departments. I can buy factory-made clothes and shoes, circles, clothes and cosmetics, toys and electronic gadgets there.

The butcher shop has a wide selection of meats such as beef, pork, mouton, chicken and turkey. It's so wonderful to choose a piece of meat that you need in soup or for barbecue, so my mother is in the business of buying meat.

I like shopping. Shopping brings an element of fun and entertainment to life.

Although a woman is an extremely unpredictable creature, if you ask her what
she needs for complete happiness, then she will surely gladly provide
you a list consisting of many items: necessary and not so, stylish and necessary, suitable for eye color or purse, warm, tight, comfortable, chic, or devoid of all these advantages, but just cool, etc. All these positions can be reduced to one denominator called
shopping. In our article today you will find words and phrases related to this tedious task for the male half of the population, which will definitely facilitate this process in an English-speaking country. The names of stores, departments and basic vocabulary and on the topic are at your service. Enjoy and absorb!

English vocabulary on the topic "Shopping"

Les-12

Do you think we missed one "p" in the title of the article? Nope! In fact, philologists see no justification for doubling the consonant in the word shopping and similar ones. Moreover, this practice is considered as a phenomenon “alien to Russian writing”. So, the modern spelling norm is shopping, and we made no mistake. Such spelling is "legalized", by the way, by the academic "Russian Spelling Dictionary" edited by V.V. Lopatin - Chairman of the Spelling Commission of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Just so you know ;)

We will not now talk about all the well-known statements about the process of choosing and buying goods, which is the best antidepressant for women (and for some men too) and brings an ocean of pleasure in itself. Btw, according to recent studies, the intensity of gamma rhythms in people who shop is higher than in people who have sex or become winners of any competitions. What a twist! Well, as they say, whatever floats your boat (to each his own). In addition, not all of the experimental subjects reported real pleasure experienced - moreover, some complained of fatigue. Scientists say that this is directly related to the difference in the psychotypes of the experimental subjects. Actually, only a real purchase brings pleasure, and everything else is just a waste of energy, causing nervousness and grouchiness.

Whether you love shopping or need it, you can practice your English at the same time. After all, this is a great way to meet a bunch of people, and become more confident in a conversation. After getting acquainted with the phrases and vocabulary in our article, you will know what you can expect to hear from people in stores. This will make your shopping experience more enjoyable and improve your English. The more you remember, the easier it will be in the future, and the more natural you will feel in this environment.

Shopping - main terms

People in the store:

• customer- buyer, client;
• cashier/clerk- cashier/clerk;
• Attendant/assistant- service person/seller;
• manager- manager, administrator;
• Crowd- crowd.

Objects and basic concepts:

• wallet(male) - men's wallet;
• Purse(female) - women's purse (ladies' handbag);
• Scale(s) - scales;
• Till/counterer- cash box, cash desk;
• barcode- barcode;
• Receipt- receipt, cashier's check;
• gift receipt*- gift voucher;
• Aisle- passage between rows (shelves);
• shelf/shelves- shelf / shelves;
• Trolley- cart;
• Basket- basket;
• Lift- elevator;
• Escalator- escalator;
• bag- plastic bag;
• Fitting rooms / changing rooms- fitting rooms;
• Checks- checks;
• Cash- cash;
• coins- coins;
• card machine- terminal, device for payment by credit card;
• Chip and pin machine- POS-terminal, a device for accepting payment
  kart;
• credit cards / debit cards- credit/debit cards;
• Loyalty card- loyalty card;
• show-case, shop-window, display window- showcase;
• Products- products.

* the gift receipt does not show the price paid, it is given to someone
along with the gift so that if they don't like it, the frustrated recipient can return it to the store. If the item you are buying is for someone else, ask for a gift voucher.

Store types

shopping mall / mall- shopping and entertainment complex / center;
Chemistry(UK) / pharmacy / drug store- pharmacy;
Convenience store (corner shop) - duty store, kiosk store, corner store, convenience store, open until late; a self-service grocery store with higher prices and a limited range;
toy shop / toy store- a toy shop;
bookshop- book Shop;
ladies clothes shop / women's apparel shop / boutique- women's clothing store;
Men's clothing shop / menswear store / tailor- shop/atelier of men's clothing;
Shoe shop / cobbler's- shoe shop;
Jeweler's / jewelry store- jewelry shop;
Opticians / optometrists- optics;
electrical store- electronics store;
record shop- a music shop;
Newsstall / newsstand / news depot / newsagent's- newsstand;
Ironmonger's / ironmongery- hardware store;
Charity shop / second hand shop- stock store, "second hand", giving away
proceeds (in whole or in part) for charitable purposes;
Flea market- "flea market", clothing market, flea market, bazaar;
Haberdasher's / haberdashery- haberdashery;
market / shopping plaza- market, indoor market;
Florist /botanist- flower shop;
Butcher's- Butcher shop;
Fishmonger's / seafood store- seafood shop, fish shop;
greengrocers / grocery store / grocer's(UK) - grocery store, food (grocery) store;
Baker's / bakery- bakery, bakery;
Delicatessen- delicatessen shop (culinary), gastronomic shop;
The assortment consists of dishes that cannot be bought in a regular supermarket.
DIY store / home supply store- construction (hardware) store, store of goods for home and repair;
hardware store- household goods store, building materials store;
stationery shop- stationery;
off-licence- a liquor store, a liquor store with a license to
sale of alcoholic beverages to take away;
post office- post office, post office (institution);
supermarket- supermarket, supermarket, large self-service store;
gardening store / gardening center- shop like "All for the garden";
sporting goods store- sporting goods store;
tea shop (tea house) - tea shop;
pet shop(store) - pet store;
Petrol station(UK) / gas station(US) - gas station.

Sellers Questions

• Can/May I help you?- I can help you?
• Can I help you find something?- Can I help you find something?
• What can I do for you?- What can I do for you?
• What color would you like?- What color are you interested in?
• What size do you need?- What size do you need?
• Would you like to try it on?- Would you like to try it on?
• Is that any good? / How does it fit?- Suits you? / How does it sit on you?
• How about this one?- How about this?
• Is there anything else I can help you with?- Can I help you with something else?
• Anything else?- Anything else?

Customer responses

• I don't need any help.I'm just browsing, thanks. - Help is not needed. I'm just looking, thanks.
• No, I'm just looking, thanks. - No, I'm just looking, thanks.
• Wow, that's cheap!- Wow! It is cheap!
• That's good value. - Good price.
• Oh, that's expensive. - Oh, it's too expensive.
• That's quite reasonable. - That's quite reasonable.
• That's a little over my budget. - It's slightly out of my budget.
• That's not exactly what I'm looking for. - It's not exactly what I need.
• I'll take it. / I'll take this, please. - I'll take it, thanks.
• It's too long/too short. - Too long/short.
• It's too tight/too loose. - Too small/large.
• Wow, that's crap!- Wow! Well, sucks.

Who's ready for Halloween?

Recently it became known that Angelina Jolie spent thousand dollars shopping for Halloween. Damn she must love it! She visited a store called Glendale Halloween in Glendale, California, where she spent about an hour choosing Halloween costumes and attributes for her numerous children (6 pieces) and, therefore, for herself. In the store, the paparazzi caught Angelina with her two children - 12-year-old Zahara and 9-year-old Knox. Here is a partial list from the $1,000 check:

• Bruised machete (Was it real?);
• Ninja weapon set (Whoa! Sneak attack!);
• Big Baby Costume (I need that one!);
• Rainbow tattoos (Someone's gonna look happy in that ... happy and gay);
• Pumpkin with teeth (Trick "r" Treat! Smell my feet!);
• Straitjacket (Guess not all of her kids are mentally fine)
• Dead bird in a cage (Damn! I bet it stinks!)

Buyer Questions

• Excuse me, do you work here?- Excuse me, do you work here?
• Could you help me, please?- Could you help me?
• I'm looking for a… - I'm looking for...
• I'm trying to find a... - I'm trying to find ...
• Could you tell me where the …. is, please?- Tell me, please, where can I find ...?
• How much is this?- What price is it?
• How much are these?- How much do these cost?
• How much does this cost?- How much does it cost?
• How much is that ... in the window?- How much is that ... in the window?
• Where can I find the ...?- Where can I find...?
• Do you sell ...?- Do you sell... ?
• Do you have any…?- Do you have any...?
• Would you have this in another color?- Will you have it in another color?
• Have you got anything cheaper?- Do you have anything cheaper?
• Do you have something less pricey (expensive)?- Do you have anything not so expensive?
• Do you have this item in stock?- Do you have this (this thing) in stock (in stock)?
• Do you have a smaller/bigger/larger size?- Do you have a smaller/bigger size?
• Do you know where else I could try to find this?- Do you know where else you can try to find it?
• Does it come with a guarantee/warranty?- Does this product have a warranty?
• Where is the changing/fitting room?- Where is the dressing room?
• Is there somewhere I can try it/this/them on, please?- Can I try it on somewhere?
• Where can I weigh my groceries?- Where can I weigh my products?
• Do/can you deliver?- Do you have delivery?
• Do you have a refund policy?- Do you have a refund?
• Is this in the sale?- This is for sale?

Sellers Answers

• I'm afraid that's the only color we have.- I'm afraid that's the only color there is.
• Sorry, we don't have any more in stock.- Sorry, we no longer have this in stock.
• Sorry, we don't sell those / them here.- Sorry, we don't sell that stuff here.
• I'm afraid we don't have any more left. I'm afraid we don't have any more.
• I have exactly what you're looking for.- We have exactly what you are looking for.
• This one is on sale right now!- It's on sale at a discounted price now!
• It comes with a manufacturer's warranty.- This item comes with a manufacturer's warranty.
• It comes with a 1-year guarantee.- This product has 1 year warranty.
• The changing/fitting rooms are that way. - The fitting rooms are there.
• The scales are by the counter over there. That's where you can weigh your groceries.- Scales are over there near the cash register. There you can weigh your products.
• That one is ….(price).- It costs...
• They're ….(price) each.- These (things) are worth ... each.
• You can get a refund if you keep the receipt safe, and bring it back within 2 weeks.- Refunds are made when you save the receipt, you can return the item within 2 weeks.

Shopping with VR

VR technology will completely change our shopping experience! Soon all people will try on clothes on their 3D copies in smartphones and do online shopping with a virtual consultant, Technology Review writes.

Walmart, the world's largest wholesale and retail chain, has a team called Store No. 8, which is engaged in the development of virtual reality, 3D modeling of potentially dangerous situations and content with the maximum deep dive. According to the retail giant, this is the future of consumer activity! Customers will be able to take full-length 3D photos themselves, and then try on all the clothes from the store on their virtual copy without looking up from their smartphone. Or go to a virtual boutique and choose goods with the help of a virtual sales assistant. It will also be possible to create a 3D model of your house and, wearing VR glasses, check what dangers a small child may face.

Useful questions and answers

Where and how? How to find the right store.

Could you recommend a good toy shop/store?
Can you recommend a good toy store?
The best toy shop is in the shopping centre.
The best toy store is in the mall.

Is there a chemist/pharmacy in this area?
Is there a pharmacy near here?
The nearest one is a few miles away.
The nearest store is a few miles from here.

Could you tell me where could I get pet food from?
Can you tell me where I can get pet food?
You can buy here in the hotel.
You can buy it here at the hotel.

Do you know where the nearest shopping mall is? Can I find some records to buy there?
Do you know where the nearest shopping center is? Can I buy music records there?
There is a really good record shop just around the corner.
There's a great music store right around the corner here.

Could you direct me to the nearest post office, please?
Can you tell me where the nearest post office is?
Sure thing, just follow me. I'm heading there now.
Of course, just follow me. I'm just heading there.

I "m sorry, I" d like to send a letter here. Could you please tell me where the nearest post office is?
I'm sorry, I'd like to send mail. Can you please tell me where is the nearest post office?
The post office isn't open on Sundays.
The post office is closed on Sundays.

I "d like to buy an envelope for my letter then. Do you know where I could get that?
I would like to buy an envelope for my letter then. Do you know where you can buy one?
The convenience store on the corner might sell that.
The shop on the corner might have one.

Making a payment

You may be asked such questions and say the following phrases:

• Are you in the queue?- Are you standing in line?
• Are you being served?- Do you work?
• Who's next?- Who is next?
• Next please!- Next one, please!
• How would you like to pay?- How do you like to pay?
• Will that be cash or credit?- Cash or card?
• Do you have a loyalty card?- Do you have a loyalty card?
• Would you like a bag?- Do you need a package?
• Will that be all?- This is all?
• Would you like a gift receipt for that?- Do you need a gift receipt for this?
• Would you like me to gift wrap it for you?- Would you like to wrap this in a gift box?
• Would you like that gift wrapped?- Would you like to wrap a present?
• Would you like any cashback?- Are you interested in cashback? Cashback - a discount when paying in cash, or receiving cash from a debit card in a retail outlet when paying for a purchase; compensatory discount from the purchase price.
• Put your card into the machine, please.- Insert the card into the terminal, please.
• Enter your PIN, please.- Enter your PIN, please.
• That comes to ….(price), please.- From you... please.
• The total is ….(price).- The price (total) is...
• That's ….(price), please.- It will (cost) ... please.

And you can answer this question with a question:

• Do you take credit cards?- Do you accept credit cards?
• Can I pay by check, please?- Can I pay by check (write a check), please?
• Could I have a receipt, please?- Can I have a receipt for payment (cheque), please?
• Could I have a gift receipt, please?- May I have a gift voucher, please?
• Could you gift wrap that for me please?- Can you gift wrap this for me, please?
• Can I put one item back, please? I've changed my mind about this one. - Can I return the product? I changed my mind about this.
• Could I leave my bags here, and pick them up later, please?- Can I leave my packages here and pick them up later?
• Do you offer a cash discount?- Do you have a a discount?
• Does it have a warranty/guarantee?- Is there a guarantee for this?

But they can answer you like this:

• We take/accept all major credit cards.- We accept all major credit cards.
• Sorry, we don't accept checks.- Sorry, we don't accept checks.
• I'm afraid we take cash only.- I'm afraid we only accept cash.
• We're offering 6 months credit, with no deposit, if you're interested.- We offer a loan for 6 months, no deposit, if you are interested.

Well, you, in turn, can blurt out:

• I'll pay in cash.- I'll pay cash.
• I'll pay by card. - I'll pay by card.
• Here's ….(money), keep the change!- Here ... (amount of money), change is not necessary!
• That's it for today.- That's all for today.
• That's all, thanks.- That's all, thank you.
• thank you. Have a good day!- Thank you. Have a good day!

If something does not suit you, and you want to be indignant, then choose from these phrases:

• Who can I speak to about making a complaint?- Who can I talk to about filing a complaint?
• Could I have a refund please?- Can I get a refund?
• Can I speak to the manager, please?- Can I speak to the manager?
• I'd like to return this, please. It doesn't work.- I'd like to return this, please. It doesn't work.
• I'd like to make a complaint.- I would like to file a daloba.
• I'd like to change this for a different size, please. It doesn't fit.- I'd like to exchange it for another size, please. It does not suit me.
• Do you have the original receipt?- Do you have the original receipt?
• Did you buy it from one of our other stores?-It was a gift, but I don't like it.- Did you buy it in one of our stores? - It was a gift to me, but I'm far from delighted.
• Can I ask why you're returning it, please? - It was a gift, but the person I bought it for doesn't like it. well?- May I know the reason for the return? - It was a gift, but the person I bought it for didn't like it. Well, now what?
• Can I ask why you've changed your mind please?-I was drunk.- May I know why you changed your mind, please? - I was drunk.

Signboards and announcements

• open- open;
• closed- closed;
• Open 24HRS (hours) a day- around the clock;
• special offer- special offer;
• Sale- sale (sale at a reduced price), sale at a reduced price at the end of the season;
• Clearance sale- full sale;
• Closing down sale- sale due to the closure of the store (enterprise);
• Everything must go! /reduced to clear- Everything must be sold out! Everything is for sale! Get rid of everything!;
• liquidation sale- liquidation sale, sale of property of a bankrupt company; sale of property under the threat of bankruptcy of the company;
• Great value products- high quality products;
• good value- good value for money, good price, good option, good deal;
• Bargains- goods at reduced prices;
• Buy 1 get 1 free- when buying 1 item, the second - as a gift;
• Buy one get one half price- when buying 1 item, the next - at half the price;
• half price sale- 50% discount;
• 70% off everything- 70% discount on all goods;
• Out for lunch- went to lunch (saleswoman);
• Back in 15 minutes- I'll be back in 15 minutes;
• Back at 2 p.m.- I will be at 14:00;
• Shoplifters will be prosecuted- Shoplifting is punishable by law;
• CCTV in operation- video surveillance is carried out;
• Using credit cards- use credit cards;
• Enter your pin- enter the PIN code;
• Please wait- Please wait;
• Remove your card- withdraw your card;
• Signature- signature.

Expressions and idioms about shopping

• To buy a pig in a poke. We have a "pig in a poke", and the Americans have a pig in it. Buy a pig in a poke.

That ride he bought yesterday is a real pig in a poke.
That car that he bought yesterday is a real pig in a poke.

• To buy the farm. We have “play box”, they have “buy a farm”. When pilots crashed in the middle of the 20th century, their planes often fell on someone's farm - and the state had to pay compensation to the owners of the farm. This is where the phrase "bought a farm" came from - it means that he fell on it. Later, the expression began to be used in the same way as "glued flippers". To die or "give oak."

He bought the farm last week.
He glued his fins last week.

• The drinks are on me.- I've got a drink. I pay for drinks. Usually this refers to alcohol or food.

He was celebrating his birthday, so the drinks were on him.
He was celebrating his birthday, so the booze was on him.

• To pay one's way- live within your means, pay for yourself, contribute, pay off, be profitable.

He "s a good man, he always pays his way.
He's a good man, he always pays for himself.

• To pay over the odds- overpay.

She definitely paid over the odds for that dress.
She definitely overpaid for that dress.

• to pay through the nose- to pay with interest, to lay out money, to pay dearly.

He ended up paying through the nose for that car.
He paid a lot for that car.

• closed shop- an enterprise that employs only members of the trade union; closed enterprise.

The motor industry in the UK used to be a closed shop.
Businesses in the UK automotive industry are a "closed shop".

• To be all over the shop- to be scattered everywhere; be in disarray; anywhere; anywhere; wherever you go.

His papers were all over the shop.
His papers were scattered all over the place.
I "ve looked for it all over the shop, but I still can't find it.
Where I just did not look for it, but still could not find it.

• To shop around- visit stores, looking closely at prices and comparing them.

I always shop around first before buying something.
I always compare prices first before I buy something.

• To shop lift- steal goods from the store, commit shoplifting.

He was caught shoplifting.
He was caught shoplifting.

• To shop someone- extradite someone, "surrender" someone to the police.

He shopped her to the five-os*.
He turned her in to the cops.

*five-o- such a nickname for police officers originated from the series "Hawaii 5-O", an American police drama TV show that aired on CBS in the 70s.

• To shop till you drop- shopping until you drop. Go on a long shopping trip.

She shopped till she dropped yesterday.
Yesterday she was shopping till she dropped.

• To talk shop- talk on a professional topic, talk about work, about business (for example, at a party).

He is so boring, all he does all day is talk shop.
He's so boring, he talks about his work all day.

• To shut up shop- close the shop, round off, wind up the case.

We were so exhausted so we decided to shut up shop and get some booze.
We were so exhausted that we decided to just close the shop and buy alcohol.

Now you know! Now you are armed and dangerous. Time to buy tickets and go to Los Angeles or London shopping! Spend your money wisely and choose only the things you need.

Shop till you drop and do it with pleasure!

Big and friendly family EnglishDom

Topic: Shopping in My Life

Subject: My Purchases

Shopping is a modern tendency as it is impossible to live in the contemporary world and not to visit shops. Despite the existence of markets, most of the population of every country everything necessary in the shops. Even the residents of the smallest far away villages at least once a month visit shops: they can’t live without products, household detergents, equipment, devices etc. Speaking about the citizens of rather big cities shops are an integral part of their life. They are located everywhere and each person spends a pretty penny there as there are so many temptations. I am not an exception and can admit that I am a real spender. I love shopping no matter what I buy and how much I spend. It is so pleasant to get an item, which you have been wishing to obtain for some time, and at last you receive it. But not every my purchase is a real bargain, so I always try to do my best in choosing the next goods.

Shopping is modern trend because it is impossible to live in modern world and not go shopping. Despite the presence of markets, most of the population of every country still prefers to purchase everything they need in stores. Even the inhabitants of small remote villages visit the shops at least once a month: they cannot live without food, household chemicals, equipment, devices, etc. Speaking of residents big cities, shops are an integral part of their lives. They are located everywhere, and each person spends a lot there, because there are so many temptations there. I am no exception and I can admit that I am a real spender. I love shopping no matter what I buy or how much I spend. It's so nice to receive an item that you've been wanting for some time, and finally you have it. But not every purchase I make is very profitable, so I always try to choose carefully the next product.

Being a mother of a small child and a wife I have to do my shopping at least once a week. The goods I buy are very diverse and are sold in different shops. Supermarkets, stalls and small local shops are usually visited by me in order to buy . I choose the local butcher's to get fresh meat, the greengrocer's – to provide my family with fresh juicy fruit and vegetables, the baker's – to taste fragrant bread and pastry and the corner shop to buy everything I have not included into my list, but need urgently.

As a mother of a young child and a wife, I have to do my shopping at least once a week. The goods I buy are very diverse, and they are sold in different stores. I usually visit supermarkets, stalls and small local stores to buy goods from the weekly list. I choose a local butcher to get fresh meat, a greengrocer to provide my family with fresh juicy fruits and vegetables, a baker to sample fragrant bread and pastry, and a corner store to buy everything I didn't include on my list, but it was urgently needed.

Supermarket is , where we buy goods. Usually we come there in order to save some money and buy products on sale or with special discounts. And now I realize that this marketing strategy works ideally as there has never been a situation when we left the shop only with cheap products. The assortment is so various that you can not pass by something tasty. Also supermarkets have one more outweighing benefit: you are allowed to choose . It is very valuable especially for mothers with infants, as they wish to buy fresh products for their kids, especially the dairy ones, and they are able to choose the items with the latest expiry date.

The supermarket is another place visited by our family where we buy goods. We usually go there to save money and buy products on sale or with special discounts. And now I understand that this marketing strategy ideally works, since there has never been a situation when we left the store only with cheap products. The assortment is so varied that you can not pass by something tasty. Also, supermarkets have another advantage: you are allowed to choose the goods yourself. This is very valuable especially for mothers with babies, as they would like to buy fresh products for their children, especially dairy products, and they have the opportunity to choose products with the most distant expiration date.

Clothes also belong to the items, which I regularly buy for myself and the members of my family. In spite of the fact that markets provide a good choice of outfits, usually they are of a very low quality. to buy clothes only of high quality. But as we do not earn very much, we try to buy clothes only at the time of seasonal discounts. Even very prestigious brands lower the prices to the minimum, so it is possible to buy beautiful outfits for reasonable prices. As for the I try to store everything necessary for the next season beforehand or order wonderful European clothes from abroad – it seems to be expensive, but in reality appears to be very affordable.

Clothing also belongs to the items that I regularly buy for myself and my family members. Even though the markets provide a good selection of outfits, they are usually of very poor quality. So one day, together with my husband, we decided to buy clothes only High Quality. But since we don't earn very much, we try to buy clothes only during seasonal sales. Even very prestigious brands cut prices to a minimum, so you can buy beautiful outfits at affordable prices. If we talk about children's clothes, I try to stock up on everything I need for the next season in advance or order wonderful European clothes from abroad - it seems to be expensive, but in reality it turns out to be very affordable.

Many girls and women choose this way of buying clothes because of a wide choice, rather diverse prices and a possibility to find the thing, which you live in. I am not a fan of online shopping as there is no possibility to try the desirable item on, but there are goods, which I also usually buy only from the Internet shops – these are devices and other equipment. At least once a year our family has, as they can greatly. So we follow such a rule: we visit quite large retailers suggesting the item we need, evaluate all the pros and cons with a suitable price and shipping. We double the advantages of buying online due to the lower price and a quick delivery to the doors of our house. It is also a wonderful way of making surprises for your relatives, as the bill for the purchase they with emotions when this new equipment arrives at their home.

Another aspect of modern shopping is online shopping. Many girls and women choose this way of buying clothes because of wide choice, quite a variety of prices and the ability to find a thing that may not be present in the city where you live. I am not a big fan of online shopping as there is no way to try on the desired outfit, but there are items that I usually buy only through online stores - these are devices and other equipment. At least once a year, our family needs to buy something from electrical appliances, as they can greatly facilitate everyday life. Therefore, we adhere to this rule: we visit fairly large retailers offering this product, evaluate all the pros and cons and find it in an online store with a suitable price and delivery. We double the benefits of buying online with a lower price and faster delivery to our door. It is also a great way to surprise your relatives, after you pay the bill, they will be overwhelmed with emotion when this new equipment arrives at their homes.

. We live in the century of technology and services and both these peculiarities are characteristics of shopping. Department stores have become not only the way to obtain something new, but also the way to relax and forget about the rat race of our lives. So shopping apart from its main function became a means of rest and leisure activity. No wonder it is so pleasant to spend money.

Shopping takes most our lives, because today we cannot live without it. The changes in the world have also led to changes in our lives. Many people are of the opinion that it is much easier to earn money and buy everything you need instead of doing housework or other activities. We live in an age of technology and services and these features are the characteristics of shopping. Department stores have become not only a way to get something new, but also a way to relax and forget about the incredible speed of our lives. Therefore, shopping, in addition to its main function, has become a means of recreation and leisure. No wonder it's so fun to spend money.

Online shopping is becoming more and more popular in the modern world. Most often, of course, we make purchases on Russian-language sites, but some of us are already conquering foreign online stores to the fullest. So that you do not have to constantly look in the dictionary, we decided to create a small selection of the most necessary English words for online shopping.

Vocabulary for choosing a purchase in English

So, you have decided to plunge into the world of online shopping. You have chosen the right store for this and decided to start. What words would you use for this?
First you need to look at what you want. You can enter what you are interested in into the search bar on the store page or start browsing things from the department ( department) that you need (for example, women's clothing department). Did something interesting catch your attention? Feel free to go to the page of this thing and continue your acquaintance! A selection of useful words will help you not get lost in the world of online shopping.

Vocabulary for paying for purchases in English

All things are selected, the order is made, now it's time to part with your hard-earned money. Here we also have a small selection of useful vocabulary.

Vocabulary in English for forwarding purchases

In fact, we have done everything and bought what we need. But there are a couple more words that may come in handy while waiting for an order.

We hope that our small selection of useful words and expressions in English for online shopping will help make your online shopping easier and more enjoyable.

Shutikova Anna

Polish artist and journalist Janina Ipohorska said: “Buying is easy. It's hard to pay." However, sometimes shopping can be a different kind of difficulty, such as when we have to have a conversation in a store in English. In this article, we will present you with an understandable and convenient phrase book on the topic “In the store” and tell you about the features of shopping abroad.

We have written a simple travel phrasebook that contains dialogues, phrases and a dictionary on 25 essential topics. Go on a journey with the main character and improve your English. You can download the book for free at.

Imagine that you are abroad in a hotel. You have already swum in the sea, and even the local natives envy your golden tan. What else to do with yourself? We offer you to try alternative medicine, namely shopping therapy! Shopping is an excellent remedy for depression and the feeling of the frailty of being. Ready to go shopping?

Store names in English with translation

To begin with, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the names of stores in English, because this will greatly facilitate your orientation in the city. If necessary, you can ask the locals for the location of the nearest confectionery store and you can easily navigate the signs on the streets of the city.

Word	Translation
appliance store	home appliances store
bookshop/bookstore	book Shop
bottle shop/store, off-license	liquor store
boutique	boutique (expensive clothing store)
butcher's	Butcher shop
card shop	shop of postcards and gift wrapping
dairy /ˈdeəri/	dairy store
department store	department store (all goods are sold: from food to furniture)
fishmonger's/fish shop/store/market	fish shop
florist's	flower shop
gift shop	gift shop
greengrocer's	vegetable shop
grocer's	grocery store (grocery)
ironmonger's/hardware shop	tool and hardware store
jeweler's/jewelry shop	jewelry shop
mall (shopping center)	mall (usually consists of clothing stores)
market	market
newsagent's	newsstand
optician's	optics store
outlet center	Outlet
patisserie / sweet shop / confectioner's	Candy store
perfumery	perfume shop
pet shop	pet Shop
pharmacy/drugstore/chemist's	pharmacy
record shop	a music shop
retail park	retail park (view of the shopping center)
shoe shop	shoe shop
shop/store	shop
stationer's	stationery store
supermarket	supermarket (usually a convenience store)
tobacco shop	tobacco shop
toyshop	a toy shop

As you noticed, a pharmacy can be called three different words: pharmacy, chemist's and drugstore. What is the difference between them? It is believed that the drugstore is the American version of the name of the pharmacy, and the terms pharmacy and chemist's are better used in the UK. Previously, the word drug only in the United States and Canada meant both drugs and medications at the same time. Now the word drugstore is already used by residents of foggy Albion. However, today there is another difference between these two terms. In most cases, the pharmacy and chemist’s dispense drugs only by prescription, while the drugstore can also buy over-the-counter drugs, as well as cosmetics, personal care products, etc.

Outlet is not yet a very popular type of store in our country. The outlet is a shopping center that sells branded clothing at significant discounts. Most often, this is the sale of deposits of goods in store warehouses. Quite often, outlets are located outside the city, which allows sellers to minimize costs and sell things at a small margin.

Retail Park is an outlet-like mall. Retail parks are centers built in a short time from cheap materials, and sometimes they even look like hangar structures. Renting a room in such a building is cheap, so things here are sold at ridiculous prices. American-type retail parks are usually located outside the city, British-type - within the city. In Russia, there is not a single classic retail park yet.

How to find the right store

Have you decided to go shopping for clothes or are you going to buy souvenirs for friends and relatives? Then ask the receptionist at the hotel where the nearest shops and boutiques are located. You can do this with the following phrases in English.

Phrase	Translation
Where is the nearest mall/supermarket?	Where is the nearest mall/supermarket?
Is there an outlet center in the area?	Is there an outlet somewhere in the area?
Where can I buy a suit?	Where can I buy a suit?
Can you recommend any bookstores?	Can you recommend any bookstores?
I am looking for a toyshop.	I am looking for a toy store.
Where can I get flowers?	Where can I buy flowers?

A hotel employee can answer you in this way:

Phrase	Translation
There is a good toy store just around the corner.	There is a good toy store just around the corner.
The best bookstore is in the mall.	The best bookstore is in the mall.
The nearest boutique is a few miles away.	The nearest boutique is a few miles from here.

Basic vocabulary for dialogue in the store

Before visiting the store, let's look at the basic words you need to know in order to make a purchase in the store while communicating in English. We will list the vocabulary with which you can build the necessary phrases.

Word	Translation
a basket	basket in the supermarket
a cash desk	cash register
a cashier	cashier
a changing/fitting room	dressing room
a check	check
a coin	coin
a counter	counter
a credit card	credit card
a customer	buyer
a discount	discount
a note (bank note)	banknote
a receipt /rɪˈsiːt/	receipt
a refund	refund of the cost of the goods: money that is given to you when you return the item
a shop assistant / salesman	salesman
shop window	showcase
a trolley	trolley in the supermarket
buy/purchase	purchase
cash	cash
change	change
sale	sale
scales	scales
cheap	cheap
expensive	Expensive
high quality	high quality
second-hand	used
to choose/select/pick	choose
to go shopping	to go shopping
to haggle/bargain	to bargain
to pay (in) cash	pay in cash
to pay by/with credit card	pay by card
to pay for	pay for (something)
to queue up, to line up, to stand in line	stand in line for (something)
to take off	take off (thing)
to try on	try on

Phrases for dialogue in the store in English

So, the goal is achieved - you have found a particular store and decided to make a few purchases. However, it is unlikely that you will have time to go to the right department or find the item you are looking for on your own: helpful sellers lie in wait at the entrance offering help to all suffering buyers. He may ask you the following questions:

Phrase	Translation
Can I help you?	I can help you?
What would you like?	What would you like?
Are you looking for something special?	Are you looking for something specific?
Are you being served?	Are you being served?
Which do you prefer?	What do you prefer?

If you are looking for something specific, do not refuse the help of the seller, he will help you find the right thing. Do you want to look around and walk around the store? Report this to the seller: abroad, the phrase “I’m just browsing” is perceived quite adequately, and no one will incinerate you with a look for such words.

Phrase	Translation
Could/Can you tell me where suits are?	Could you tell me where the costumes are?
Where can I find dresses?	Where can I find dresses?
Do you have dresses in stock?	Do you have dresses for sale?
Excuse me, I can't find the toy section.	Sorry, I can't find the toy section.
Can you help me?	Can you help me?
I am looking for a dress.	I am looking for a dress.
I need a new suit.	I need a new suit.
Do you sell flowers?	Do you sell flowers?
I'm just browsing/looking.	I'm just watching.

So, you are in the right department, choose something original for yourself. Below is a list of phrases that you will need if you are going to buy clothes abroad. Some offers can also be used on other products. If you are going to buy something tasty abroad, pay attention to the article "Food in English", in it you will find all the vocabulary you need.

Phrase	Translation
Show me this, please.	Show it to me please.
What is the price of this dress/suit?	How much is this dress/suit?
How much is it? / How much does it cost?	How much does it cost?
It's very expensive/cheap.	It's very expensive/cheap.
Trying on things
I would like to try it on.	I'd like to try this on.
May I try it on?	Can I try it?
Where is the changing room?	Where is the fitting room located?
I'm size 10.	I have 10 size.
This is not my size.	This is not my size.
These shoes are tight.	These shoes are tight.
It seems to fit well.	It seems to fit well.
It's too loose/tight.	It's too loose/tight.
This is too big/small.	It's too big/small.
Do you have a larger/smaller size?	Do you have a larger/smaller size?
Do you have this in a size 11?	Do you have this item in size 11?
Can you measure me?	Can you take my measurements/size?
Would you measure my waist, please?	Could you measure my waist please?
Questions about the item
I would like another colour.	I would like a different color.
Have you got this in another color?	Do you have this item in another color?
Is this on sale?	Is this item on sale?
Is this made of leather/silk?	Is it made of leather/silk?
What is this jacket made of?	What is this jacket made of? (what material)
Is this new or second hand?	Is this new or used?
Can I bring this back if it doesn't fit?	Can I return an item if it doesn't fit me?
Report that you are buying an item
I will take it.	I'll take it.
I would like to pay cash.	I would like to pay in cash.
Could you wrap it, please?	Could you wrap it up?
Where is the cash desk?	Where is the checkout located?
Refuse to buy or postpone it
I don't like this.	I do not like it.
It is not what I am looking for.	This is not what I'm looking for.
It is not quite what I wanted.	It's not exactly what I wanted.
I just can't make up my mind.	I can't decide what to buy.
I'm not sure which I like.	Can't decide what I like.
It doesn't fit me.	It doesn't fit me (in size).
It does not suit me.	It doesn't suit me (color, style, etc.).
I will come back later.	I will come back later.

To determine your size, you can use the following site asos.com. Pay attention to the first column of numbers for each of the sizes, there are parameters for this size in centimeters.

The seller will communicate with you, answer your questions and ask your own. You need to understand what he is saying, so here is a list of phrases in English that you can hear in the store from the seller.

Phrase	Translation
The answer to the question about the availability of an item
Sorry, we are short of it at the moment.	Sorry, we're done with it.
Sorry, we don't have any left.	Sorry, this is gone.
Sorry, we don't sell them.	Sorry, we don't sell these things.
This is on sale.	It is on sale.
Questions about the item
What color would you like?	What color (item) would you like?
Would you like to try it on?	Would you like to try it on?
What size do you wear? / What is your size?	What size do you wear?
Does it fit right?	Does it suit you?
What about this?	How about this?
This dress/suit fits well.	This dress/suit fits you well.
Completion of the purchase
Anything else?	Anything else?
Do you want to take it?	Will you take it?
I will take this to the check-out for you.	I'll take it to the checkout for you.
Please, pay at the check-out.	Please pay at the checkout.

If you decide to buy any electronic device abroad, be sure to check in the store if it works. Also ask the seller if there is a guarantee for this thing, because by the period of the guarantee provided, you can roughly judge the quality of the goods: the longer the guarantee, the better the thing. Ask the following questions:

Phrase	Translation
May I see it working?	May I see how it works?
Does it come with a guarantee?	Is there a warranty on this item?

They will definitely show you what and how it works, and when you ask about a guarantee, you can get something like the following answer:

Phrase	Translation
It comes with a three year guarantee.	This item has a three year warranty.

Promotions and sales are the main emptying of the wallet. But how difficult it is to refuse the next purchase when you are offered such an attractive discount! For those who like to buy things at a bargain price, we offer a list of phrases that you can see in stores. Study them, and then you will definitely not pass by a cool sale.

Phrase	Translation
the Autumn Sales are on	Fall sales are on now
buy one get one free	buy one item, get the second one for free
buy one get 35% off your second item	buy one item and get 35% off the second one
all out-of-season stock on sale	seasonal sale
buy two for the price of one	buy two items for the price of one
closing-down sale	store sale before closing
clearance sale	complete sale
reduced to clear	markdown (not due to marriage, but to sell the thing faster)

In addition to discounts, there may be other signs in stores, the meaning of which is useful to understand. So, if you buy something bulky, you need to see if it will be delivered to your door or if you have to manage on your own. In addition, there are items that cannot be returned or exchanged. Some stores offer only items for exchange when returning, that is, you do not have the opportunity to return your money. Pay attention to the following inscriptions in stores.

at the checkout

At the checkout, you will need to take a queue, if there is one, and also chat with the cashier, who will tell you the total amount of purchases. You cannot understand what numbers the cashier calls? Ask him to write the amount due on a piece of paper.

If at the checkout it suddenly turns out that the item costs a little more than you expected, directly tell the cashier about it. Abroad, they calmly treat people who refuse too expensive purchases, so no complexes. In addition, in stores you can be offered a nice discount, and you will still get the item at the expected price. We suggest using the following phrases in English in the store.

Phrase	Translation
Are you in the queue?	Are you standing in line?
Can you write down the price?	Can you post a price?
Sorry, that is more than I thought it would be.	Sorry, this item costs more than I thought.
Do you have something cheaper?	Do you have anything cheaper?
Do you take credit cards?	Do you accept credit cards?
Can I pay by credit card?	Can I pay by credit card?
What is the price after the discount?	What is the price of the item including the discount?
What is the total?	What is the total amount?
How much do I owe you?	How much do I owe you?
I need a receipt.	I need a check.
Can I have the receipt, please?	Can I have a check please?
Can I buy it tax-free?	Can I buy this without tax?

If you pay for your purchases in cash, you can communicate with the cashier using the following phrases:

The cashier might tell you something like this:

Phrase	Translation
Would you like it wrapped?	Would you like to wrap it up?
Would you like a bag?	Do you need a package?
That is $50 altogether.	The total amount is 50 dollars.
Enter your PIN, please.	Please enter your PIN.
Here is your change.	This is your surrender.

Returning an item to the store

Sometimes it happens that you buy a defective item and only find it in a hotel. What to do in this case? If you have kept the check, you will easily be refunded or offered to exchange the defective product for a similar one without flaws. The main thing is to speak calmly with the seller, there are strict laws abroad, so you will be met halfway in the event of a similar situation. Use these phrases.

Phrase	Translation
I need to return this. / I need to turn this back.	I would like to return this item.
I would like to return a purchase and get a refund.	I would like to return my purchase and get my money back.
I bought this here yesterday.	I bought this here yesterday.
I would like my money back.	I would like my money back.
It is faulty.	The item is damaged.
It is broken.	The thing is broken.
Can I change it for another thing?	Can I exchange it for something else?

1. Basic vocabulary

To buy something, you need to at least know the name of this "something" in English. Even if you forget some phrase, in extreme cases you can tell the seller the name of the desired product, use gestures and complete the purchase. Therefore, before the trip, think about what you will buy abroad, and learn the names of these words. For example, knowledge of clothes in English, names of cosmetics, useful vocabulary for communication in a pharmacy may be useful to you. In addition, be sure to repeat the numbers in English, because you will need to understand how much you need to pay at the checkout.

2. Practice exercises

Practical exercises on the topic "Shopping" are the best way to learn and memorize new vocabulary well, as well as see how it "works" in sentences. Many tasks for Beginner to Intermediate levels can be found at esolcourses.com.

3. Thematic podcasts

With podcasts, you can get your ears used to the sound of English speech. This is very important, because abroad you will have to not only speak, but also understand what the interlocutor wants to tell you. Moreover, you will be able to learn useful vocabulary on the topic. We invite you to listen to thematic audio materials on the website eslpod.com. They are read by a professional announcer at a rather slow pace, and each podcast has a transcript so you can understand exactly what it is about. in question(there are several materials in the public domain, to use all the podcasts of the site you need to pay for your membership in the listeners club).

4. Tax free benefit

Many countries have a VAT (Value Added Tax) refund system. The logic is this: you are not a resident of this state, and therefore you are not required to pay VAT. Since the amount of VAT is always included in the price of the goods, you must return it when leaving the country. The easiest way to get your money back: we issue a Tax Free Check in the store, where your data is indicated, as well as the seal and signature of the seller. When you leave the country, customs will stamp this receipt for you and you can receive a refund at special Tax Free cash Refund points. Usually such points are located near Duty Free shops. However, some stores do not like paperwork, so they may give you a discount on the amount of tax or offer some kind of gift. To calculate the amount of tax free that you can be reimbursed in a particular country, use this calculator.

5. Sales

As a rule, two sales are popular abroad: winter and summer. Shopping in winter is especially attractive: in many stores, they first hold pre-holiday Christmas sales, and after the holidays they finally empty the already thinner wallet of buyers with discounts of up to 70-80%. However, large outlets and retail parks hold sales all year round, whoever seeks will always find.

6. Thrifty left

Paco Underhill has been studying shoppers and store tricks. He leads interesting fact. Most people are right-handed, so they immediately turn right when entering a store. Sellers take advantage of this and place the most expensive items on the right side. Therefore, look for products with discounts and at a bargain price on the left side of the store.

7. Clutter is profitable

Often in the store you can see the following picture: ordinary things are beautifully hung, and things on sale are dumped in an ugly mass on some table or lie in large baskets. This is another seller's trick: they do this so that you do not linger too much on inexpensive things. The calculation is this: when things are piled up, it seems that they look untidy and unfashionable, and it will take a lot of time to find the right size. However, in reality, the quality of things at a discount is in no way inferior to an ordinary thing, so the time spent on “digging” in piles of things pays off with interest.

Complete list of words and phrases for download

We have compiled a document for you, which contains words and expressions on this topic. You can download it from the link below.

(*.pdf, 389 Kb)

We think that now you are ready to conduct a dialogue in the store in English and will be able to appreciate shopping abroad. Use the learned phrases, and you can buy exactly what you have long dreamed of. We wish you many years of enjoyment with your purchases!