Shopping is more than just buying stuff—it’s a full experience, complete with endless decisions, friendly salespeople, and sometimes the shock of a price tag! For ESL students, knowing the right words can turn shopping from a guessing game into a confident experience. Whether you’re asking for a discount or searching for that perfect pair of shoes, this lesson will guide you through essential shopping vocabulary, complete with funny insights to keep it light. Get ready to shop ‘til you drop (or until your wallet says stop)!
Vocabulary List
| Vocabulary Word | Definition | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Price | The amount of money something costs. | The price of this shirt is too high for my budget. |
| Discount | A reduction in price, usually a percentage off. | They offered a 20% discount on all items today! |
| Sale | A time when items are sold at a lower price. | I always wait for the sale before I buy clothes. |
| Receipt | A piece of paper that shows proof of purchase. | Don’t forget your receipt in case you need to return it. |
| Cashier | The person who takes your money at a store. | The cashier was very friendly. |
| Cart | A large basket on wheels for carrying items in a store. | My cart is full of snacks and drinks. |
| Shelf | A flat surface in a store where items are displayed. | The shampoo is on the top shelf. |
| Fitting room | A small room where you try on clothes. | I’ll be in the fitting room trying on these jeans. |
| Refund | Money returned when you return an item. | I got a refund for the shoes that didn’t fit. |
| Exchange | Replacing an item with another. | They let me exchange the shirt for a different size. |
Expanded Vocabulary
| Vocabulary Word | Definition | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Cash | Physical money like bills and coins. | I paid for the book in cash. |
| Credit Card | A plastic card used to pay, to be paid later. | I left my credit card at home—oops! |
| Customer Service | The department that helps with returns and questions. | Customer service helped me find the right size. |
| Bargain | An item at a very good price, often surprisingly low. | This shirt is such a bargain at 50% off! |
| Receipt | A document showing proof of purchase. | Keep your receipt in case you need a refund. |
Key Phrases
- How much does this cost?
- Example: “How much does this jacket cost?”
- Example: “Can you tell me the price of this bag?”
- Do you have this in… (size/color)?
- Example: “Do you have this in a medium?”
- Example: “Is there a black version of this dress?”
- Where is the fitting room?
- Example: “Where can I try this on? Is the fitting room nearby?”
- Can I get a refund?
- Example: “This doesn’t fit—can I get a refund?”
- Example: “I’d like to return this, please. Is a refund possible?”
- Do you accept credit cards?
- Example: “Do you accept credit cards, or is it cash only?”
- Example: “Can I pay with my credit card?”
Example Paragraph
“Today, I went to the mall with the mission to find a new pair of jeans. After filling my cart with a few options, I headed to the fitting room. One pair fit just right, but when I saw the price, I almost dropped them! Thankfully, the cashier told me they were on sale, so I grabbed them at a discount. I kept my receipt in case I change my mind, but I think I scored a great bargain!”
Common Questions
- Do you have a discount on this item?
- Example: Yes, it’s currently 15% off!
- Where can I find the shoes section?
- Example: It’s right over there, next to the bags.
- What is your return policy?
- Example: You can return items within 30 days with a receipt.
- Can I exchange this item for a different size?
- Example: Yes, we can exchange it for a larger size.
- Is this item on sale?
- Example: No, but it might go on sale next week!
Invitation to Practice:
Try using these phrases by describing a recent shopping trip, or imagine the funniest bargain you’ve ever found! Share your story with a study group or in the comments. Let’s see who got the best deal!