shopping spree

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shopping spree" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe going on a shopping excursion where one buys many items within a short period of time. For example: "My sister went on a shopping spree and bought enough clothes for a whole new wardrobe!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

First comes the shopping spree.

The New York Times

One last shopping spree.

The New York Times

Then there is the shopping spree.

Independent

And first seasonal shopping spree.

The New York Times

Streisand's televised shopping spree did the trick.

The New York Times - Magazine

First prize was a $500 shopping spree.

The New York Times

His shopping spree spanned the world.

The New York Times

So when does the shopping spree begin?

The New York Times

Vivian Nicholson treated herself to a perpetual shopping spree.

Independent

Their latest shopping spree may not be over.

The New York Times - Sports

"That was a Christmas shopping spree," Mr. Polis said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "shopping spree" to vividly describe an enthusiastic and often unrestrained episode of buying. It can be applied to both personal and organizational contexts to illustrate substantial purchasing activity.

Common error

Avoid using "shopping spree" when describing budget-conscious or needs-based shopping. "Shopping spree" implies an element of excess and impulse, which contrasts with careful, planned purchasing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shopping spree" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a period of extensive and often impulsive shopping, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "shopping spree" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe an extensive and often impulsive shopping episode. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various contexts, including news, general writing, and even some scientific discussions. While generally neutral, it is best used in contexts where the intent is to highlight the enthusiasm and scale of the purchasing activity. Consider alternatives like "spending binge" or "purchasing expedition" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shopping binge

A close synonym, emphasizing excess.

spending binge

Implies excessive spending, often with negative connotations.

retail therapy session

Suggests shopping as a means to improve mood.

buying frenzy

Emphasizes the excitement and impulsiveness of the shopping activity.

purchasing expedition

Formal alternative, highlighting the planned nature of the shopping.

consumer splurge

Focuses on the large amount of consumption.

acquisition binge

A variation focusing on the act of acquiring possessions.

market haul

Suggests a large quantity of goods acquired from the market.

boutique blitz

Implies a rapid and extensive visit to multiple boutiques.

goods grab

Emphasizes the act of seizing or quickly obtaining items.

FAQs

How can I use "shopping spree" in a sentence?

You can use "shopping spree" to describe an occasion of extensive buying. For example: "After receiving her bonus, she went on a "shopping spree" and bought a new wardrobe."

What's a more formal alternative to "shopping spree"?

While "shopping spree" is generally acceptable, a more formal alternative could be "purchasing expedition" or "acquisition initiative", depending on the context.

Is "shopping spree" only used for personal shopping?

No, "shopping spree" can also be used to describe extensive purchasing by organizations, such as a company's "acquisition spree" or a sports team's player "shopping binge".

What's the difference between "shopping spree" and "shopping binge"?

While similar, "shopping binge" often carries a stronger connotation of excess and potential regret, whereas "shopping spree" is generally more neutral or even positive.