row of shops

USAGE SUMMARY

'row of shops' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a line of shops that are next to each other. For example: "The small town had a row of shops on its main street."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

On the other side of the road, there's a long row of shops.

The New Yorker

There was even a roofed arcade, with a row of shops stretching back on each side.

The New Yorker

He surveyed the row of shops, which to him symbolized the spirit of the street.

The New York Times

A textile mill is being built next door to a new row of shops.

The New Yorker

The row of shops near their home was looted three times last Friday.

The Guardian

There is only half a row of shops, and nowhere to buy a cup of tea.

The Guardian - Arts

Further into Seraing, Jean-Pierre points out a row of shops.

The Guardian - Film

We admire it but, slightly intimidated, turn to the pretty row of shops on the promenade.

The Guardian - Travel

On Lillie Road itself, an entire row of shops is boarded up.

The Guardian

Frances's accommodation is a brick, two-storey block behind a row of shops.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Window-Shop Stroll along a row of shops, selecting pants for those who have wronged you.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "row of shops", consider the specific characteristics of the shops (e.g., types of businesses, architectural style, overall atmosphere) to provide a more vivid and informative description.

Common error

Avoid vague descriptions that don't provide specific details about the "row of shops". Instead of just saying it's a "row of shops", mention what kind of shops they are, their condition, or any unique features they have.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "row of shops" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It identifies a specific type of location characterized by a series of adjacent retail establishments. As Ludwig AI points out, it's a common phrase used across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "row of shops" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a series of adjacent retail establishments. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted and suitable for various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, and encyclopedia entries, this phrase serves to paint a picture of location with multiple retail stores. For alternative ways to describe a similar concept, one might consider "line of stores", "shopping street", or "high street", depending on the specific nuance intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

line of stores

Replaces "shops" with "stores", suggesting a slightly more formal or commercial context.

shopping street

Refers to a street with many shops.

high street

Is a common term in British English to refer to the primary shopping street of a town.

string of boutiques

Implies smaller, more specialized shops, often with a higher-end connotation.

parade of stores

Suggests a more prominent and visible display of shops, possibly in a festive or celebratory context.

commercial strip

Refers to a linear development of commercial properties along a road, typically including various types of businesses.

shopping arcade

Indicates a covered passageway lined with shops, often more enclosed and pedestrian-focused.

retail frontage

Focuses on the architectural aspect of the shops facing the street, emphasizing the display of goods and services.

business district

Describes a concentrated area with commercial activities.

marketplace

Suggests a more traditional setting with individual vendors and stalls.

FAQs

How can I describe a "row of shops" more vividly?

Instead of simply stating "row of shops", consider adding details about the types of stores, their architectural styles, or the overall atmosphere. For example, you could say "a vibrant "parade of stores" with colorful awnings" or "a quaint "shopping arcade" lined with artisanal boutiques".

What is the difference between a "row of shops" and a "shopping street"?

While both terms refer to areas with multiple retail businesses, a "row of shops" typically implies a more linear and compact arrangement of stores, often sharing a common facade or structure. A "shopping street", on the other hand, is a broader term referring to any street with a concentration of retail businesses, which may or may not be arranged in a continuous row.

Are there any regional variations in the terminology for "row of shops"?

Yes, in British English, the term "high street" is commonly used to refer to the main shopping street of a town or city, which may include a "row of shops". In some regions, the term "commercial strip" might be used to describe a linear development of businesses along a road.

What can I say instead of "row of shops" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, you could use terms like "retail frontage" or "business district" to describe an area with multiple retail businesses. These terms emphasize the commercial aspect of the area rather than the physical arrangement of the stores.