toy shop

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "toy shop" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a retail store that sells toys, typically aimed at children. Example: "The children were excited to visit the toy shop and see all the new games and dolls."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Janni storms into a toy shop.

The Guardian

The novel begins in a toy shop at Christmas.

The New York Times - Books

We meet in a toy shop once a fortnight.

The Guardian

Peter Bishop - "Runs a toy shop called Hoyti Toyti.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Just stroll into a toy shop or book store.

The Guardian

Saban's father had been a sales clerk in a small toy shop in Alexandria.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

The Wu family spotted their chance after China's first sex-toy shop opened in Beijing in 1992.

The Economist

His parents owned a wallpaper shop that became a toy-shop in the summer.

Independent

Maybe it's not so far from the toy-shop childhood ideal: Cook laughingly dubs it her "Sindy toilet".

Independent

A place like Fermilab is sort of like a toy shop.

The New York Times - Magazine

In November and December, the company's toy area will be rebranded as America's Best Toy Shop.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing for an international audience, consider using "toy store" as it is more universally understood than "toy shop", which is more common in British English.

Common error

Avoid using "toy shop" when referring to stores that primarily sell hobby-related items or collectibles. While a toy shop might carry some of these items, the primary focus is on toys for children.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "toy shop" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It refers to a retail establishment specializing in the sale of toys. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is both correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "toy shop" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a retail store that sells toys. While "toy store" is a more universal alternative, "toy shop" is frequently used in British English. As confirmed by Ludwig, this term is readily understandable and widely employed across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When writing, be mindful of your target audience to choose between "toy shop" and its alternatives for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

toy store

Direct synonym, differing only in word choice. Both are frequently used and readily interchangeable.

children's toy store

Adds specificity, clearly indicating the target demographic of the store.

toyshop

Alternative spelling; less common but still understandable.

playthings store

Uses a less common word for toys, sounding slightly more whimsical or old-fashioned.

novelty shop

Broader term; "novelty shop" might include toys, but also other unusual items.

gaming store

More specific, implies focus on video games and related merchandise rather than traditional toys.

hobby shop

Focuses on hobby-related items like model kits, which might overlap with toys, but includes more.

collectibles store

Implies a focus on rare or valuable toys, appealing to collectors.

children's boutique

Suggests a more upscale store selling a curated selection of toys and other items for children.

kids' emporium

Emphasizes a large variety of items for children, including toys.

FAQs

What is another word for "toy shop"?

A common alternative to "toy shop" is "toy store". The terms are largely interchangeable, although "toy shop" is more common in British English.

Is "toy shop" British or American English?

While understood in both, "toy shop" is more frequently used in British English. "Toy store" is generally preferred in American English.

Can I use "toyshop" instead of "toy shop"?

"Toyshop" is a less common, single-word spelling of "toy shop". While acceptable, the two-word form, "toy shop", is more widely used and recognized.

What kind of stores sell toys besides a toy shop?

Toys can be found in various stores, including department stores, supermarkets, and even online retailers. However, a "toy shop" specializes primarily in toys and related items.