Phrase guide

shop around

verb · 3 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To actively search and compare options before making a selection or choice of vendor.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: intransitive

Examples

  • He's gone to shop around for a new car.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To actively make a search for an alternative choice of something one has, owns, or wants, without it necessarily involving buying or selling anything.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: intransitive

Examples

  • She's shopping around for a new boyfriend.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

verb

Meaning 3

To put something out on offer to multiple parties in the hope one will choose it.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: transitive

Examples

  • He's shopping around his book to several studios. He hopes to get a movie deal.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.