Shopping Phrasal Verbs You Need to Know

Do you love shopping? Imagine combining your passion for it with improving your English—sounds exciting, right? Let’s explore how learning shopping-related phrasal verbs can make your conversations more fluent and fun! Whether you’re strolling through a mall, browsing online, or grabbing essentials at your local store, mastering shopping-related phrasal verbs will make your English sound natural and fluent. Ready to discover some fascinating phrasal verbs? Let’s dive in!

1. Pick Out

Meaning: To choose or select something.

Example: I need to pick out a nice dress for the party tonight.

Imagine walking into a store and being spoiled for choice—this phrasal verb is your go-to for decision-making.

2. Try On

Meaning: To put on clothing to see if it fits or looks good.

Example: Could you try on this jacket? It looks perfect for winter.

Trying on clothes isn’t just practical; it’s also a great way to build your confidence with this common phrase.

3. Shop Around

Meaning: To compare prices and options before making a purchase.

Example: I’m going to shop around for a better deal before buying a new phone.

Ever felt like a treasure hunter?

Picture yourself searching for hidden gems among the shelves, uncovering incredible deals, and feeling the thrill of discovering that perfect item. This phrase captures the excitement and satisfaction of savvy shopping adventures.

4. Look For

Meaning: To search for something specific.

Example: I’m looking for a pair of comfortable sneakers.

Shopping with a purpose? This phrase is all about your mission to find that perfect item.

5. Run Out Of

Meaning: To no longer have something.

Example: We’ve run out of milk, so I need to buy some on my way home.

This phrase is perfect for describing those moments when you realize you need to restock essentials.

6. Put Back

Meaning: To return an item to its original place.

Example: I decided to put back the shirt because it was too expensive.

Have you ever second-guessed a purchase?

This phrase sums it up.

7. Check Out

Meaning: To pay for items at a store or online.

Example: Let’s check out now; I think I’ve got everything I need.

Whether paying for groceries or examining something exciting, this phrase is versatile.

8. Sell Out

Meaning: When an item is completely sold and unavailable.

Example: The concert tickets sold out in just 10 minutes.

High-demand products?

This phrase is your way to describe them flying off the shelves.

9. Bring Back

Meaning: To return an item to the store.

Example: I need to bring back the shoes I bought because they don’t fit.

Returns are a part of shopping life, and this phrase makes it easy to explain.

10. Stock Up On

Meaning: To buy a large quantity of something.

Example: I’m going to stock up on snacks for the weekend.

Planning a big event or holiday? This phrase has got you covered.

Practice Makes Perfect

What are you waiting for? Try using these shopping phrasal verbs in your conversations or writing. Share your own sentences in the comments—we’d love to see how you’re practicing! For example:

• I’m going to shop around before I pick out a new laptop.

• Can you try on this jacket and check out the fit?

The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become in using these phrases like a pro.

Why Learn Phrasal Verbs?

Phrasal verbs add color and character to your English. Unlike standard verbs, they combine a verb and a particle (like "on" or "up") to create meanings that are often more casual and idiomatic. Mastering them can make your English sound more natural and engaging. They help you express ideas casually and naturally. Phrases like “pick out” or “run out of” instantly make you sound more fluent.

Ready to Improve Your English?

If this post piques your curiosity, explore our other resources to learn English faster. Don’t forget to use these phrasal verbs the next time you go shopping! Why not create your own shopping dialogue using these phrases? Share your creative dialogues in the comments to inspire others!