shop around

USAGE SUMMARY

"shop around" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to talk about searching for something in multiple places in order to find the best deal or option that meets your needs. For example: "I recommend shopping around for the best price on a used car."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Shop around, shop around, shop around.

The New York Times

People shop around".

The New York Times - Food

SHOP AROUND -- for bargains.

The New York Times

Sidebars: Shop Around No Bargain.

Forbes

You Betta Shop Around.

Huffington Post

Song: Shop Around.

Huffington Post

Always shop around.

WikiHow

Shop around for fragrance.

WikiHow

Shop around and negotiate.

WikiHow

Shop around, and bring proof.

WikiHow

Shop around and get quotes.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When making a significant purchase or choosing a service, always "shop around" to ensure you're getting the best value and quality.

Common error

Don't settle for the first option you find. "Shopping around" requires exploring multiple choices before committing to a decision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shop around" primarily functions as an intransitive verb phrase, meaning it doesn't take a direct object. It describes the action of a subject (usually a person or entity) engaging in comparison shopping. As Ludwig AI explains, it is a suggestion to actively search for better options.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

31%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

9%

Encyclopedias

8%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "shop around" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase that advises comparing different options before making a decision. According to Ludwig AI, it suggests actively seeking better alternatives. It's most frequently used in wiki articles and news media. To convey similar meanings, consider alternatives like "compare prices" or "research vendors", depending on the context. A key practice is to not limit your search too quickly. Always explore multiple choices before committing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

look for the best deal

Specifically targets finding the most advantageous offer, implying a monetary benefit.

compare prices

Focuses specifically on price comparison, omitting the broader search for the best option.

get multiple estimates

Focuses specifically on getting cost estimates, often used for services.

seek competitive quotes

More formal and business-oriented, suggesting a request for formal pricing.

research vendors

A business context phrase, directly implies you are looking at vendors for a specific need.

explore different options

A broader phrase that applies to any situation, not just purchasing.

scout for alternatives

Suggests a more active and exploratory search for different possibilities.

do your homework

Emphasizes research and preparation before making a decision.

check out various suppliers

A phrase for a purchase that is meant to be long term and/or in bulk.

canvass the market

A broader option, implying to go through all the options on the market before making any kind of decision.

FAQs

How can I use "shop around" in a sentence?

You can use "shop around" when advising someone to compare different options before making a purchase or decision. For example, "It's wise to "shop around" for the best interest rates on a mortgage".

What's a more formal way to say "shop around"?

In a formal setting, you could use phrases like "seek competitive quotes" or "research vendors" to convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

When is it not necessary to "shop around"?

While "shopping around" is generally a good practice, it may not be necessary for small, inexpensive items or when you trust a particular brand or vendor and value convenience over potential cost savings.

What's the difference between "shop around" and "compare prices"?

"Compare prices" focuses specifically on finding the lowest price, while ""shop around"" implies a broader search that includes considering factors like quality, service, and reputation in addition to price.