What does “Window Shop” mean?
"Window shop" means to casually browse through store windows without any intention of making a purchase.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I love to window shop on weekends and see what's new in the stores.
Example
We spent the afternoon window shopping and enjoying the city atmosphere.
Example
She enjoys window shopping as a way to relax and get inspiration for her own designs
Is “Window Shop” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Window Shop” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Window Shop” effectively in context?
You can use "Window Shop" to describe the activity of looking at items in store windows without intending to buy anything. It is often used when someone wants to browse and get inspiration or simply enjoy the experience of being in a shopping area. For example, if a friend asks what you did over the weekend, you might say, 'I went downtown and spent the afternoon window shopping.'
- 1Leisure
I love to window shop on weekends and see what's new in the stores.
- 2Exploring a City
We spent the afternoon window shopping and enjoying the city atmosphere.
- 3Finding Inspiration
She enjoys window shopping as a way to relax and get inspiration for her own designs.
Similar phrases to “Window Shop”:
To look at items casually and without a specific intention to buy
Example
She likes to browse through antique shops on weekends.
Window-browsing
The act of looking at items in store windows without intending to buy anything
Example
They spent the afternoon window-browsing in the trendy shopping district.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Window Shop” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Window Shop" is unknown.
Is “Window Shop” common in everyday conversation?
"Window Shop" is a common expression in everyday conversation. Many people use it to describe the activity of browsing store windows without intending to make a purchase.
What tone does “Window Shop” have?
"Window Shop" conveys a tone of leisure and relaxation. It is often associated with taking one's time, enjoying the experience, and finding inspiration.
Can “Window Shop” be used in informal and formal settings?
"Window Shop" is an informal expression that can be used in casual conversations with friends, family, and colleagues. It is not typically used in formal settings such as business meetings or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
"Window Shop" can be used both as a standalone phrase or as part of a sentence. For example, you can say 'Let's go "window shopping"!' to suggest the activity, or 'I enjoy "window shopping" as a way to relax and get inspiration.' to provide more context.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- window-gazing
- shop gazing
- retail therapy
- virtual window shopping
- online browsing
Antonyms
- make a purchase
- go shopping
- buy something
- make a selection
- go on a shopping spree
