Spanish Conversation · Level 2
86 words
Spanish word
comprar
Pronunciation
IPA/komˈpɾaɾ/
Meaning
- verbbuy
Example
¿Dónde puedo comprar entradas?
Where can I buy tickets?
More examples
Prefiero comprar en el supermercado los lunes.
I prefer to buy at the supermarket on Mondays.
Core concept
Exchanging money for ownership or the right to use goods or services.
Common phrases
comprar a plazos
buy in installments
comprar en el supermercado
buy at the supermarket
comprar con descuento
buy at a discount
Similar words
pagar: Pay money to cover the cost of a purchase, service, or bill.
pedir: Request that an item or service be provided or prepared.
reservar: Reserve or block availability of a service, seat, or item ahead of time.
vender: Sell goods or services by receiving money in return.
Definition in Spanish
Hacer una transacción para obtener bienes o servicios pagando su precio.
Word origin
From Vulgar Latin comparare (com- 'with' + parare 'prepare, procure'), originally 'to procure', which developed into Spanish comprar meaning 'to buy'.
Usage tips
- Comprar looks like English compare but means buy, not compare, and it usually takes a direct object (comprar algo), while comprar a alguien without an object often implies bribing someone.