# shop around

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/shop-around
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to visit different stores or websites to compare prices and quality before you buy something. You do this to make sure you get the best deal.

For teachers: to compare the price and quality of goods or services from different providers before making a purchase. The verb is primarily intransitive and functions as a consumer strategy for price optimization.

## Examples

- You should shop around before you buy a new phone.
- Instead of buying the first laptop he saw, he decided to shop around to find a better deal.
- In a highly competitive insurance market, consumers are increasingly encouraged to shop around to secure the most advantageous premiums and comprehensive coverage.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I shopped around the car." but "I shopped around for the car." — the verb is intransitive and requires the preposition 'for' to link to the item being sought.

## Usage notes

- usually used as an intransitive verb or followed by the preposition 'for' plus the item.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'window shopping', which implies looking without the intention to buy; 'shop around' implies a serious intent to purchase at the best price.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.