supermarket - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
supermarket Word Meanings
- a large store that sells food and other products
- a self-service store offering a wide variety of goods
- a grocery store that often includes a variety of departments
supermarket Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
supermarket Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈsuːpəˌmɑːkɪt/
US
/ˈsuːpərˌmɑrkɪt/
supermarket Word Etymology
super- = above, market = a place for buying and selling. The term comes from the Latin 'super' meaning 'above' and 'mercatus' meaning 'market'. Imagine a giant marketplace above the clouds, where everything you desire is within reach.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I set my hand on the cart handle and push it down a bright aisle, the shelves sliding past. I turn corners, adjust my pace, and place items into the basket as the list in my head shifts with each find. The weight grows, the hum of fridges settles into a rhythm, and I feel focused and in control. By the time I reach the checkout, the groceries have become plans for meals at home.
Real Context
Supermarket is a large store where you can buy food and many other products in a self-service setup. It usually comprises multiple sections: produce, bakery, dairy, meat, canned goods, and household items. Shoppers navigate wide aisles, compare brands on shelves, and bring items to a checkout where they bag their own purchases. The term suggests breadth and convenience, often with loyalty programs and parking. Learners commonly confuse supermarket with grocery store; in American English, grocery store can be smaller, while supermarket implies a bigger, department-style format. Typical phrases include supermarket chain, weekly shopping at the supermarket, or shop at the supermarket. Pronounce 'super' and 'market' clearly to avoid slurring.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: supermarket is larger than a grocery store. Use with chains or weekly shopping. Say 'the supermarket' when referring to a known place. Do not assume all groceries are found only there. Collocations: supermarket chain, weekly shopping at the supermarket, loyalty card. Pronounce 'super' and 'market' separately. When talking about prices, compare brands across aisles.
Common Misconceptions
- Grocery store and supermarket are always the same size and concept.
- A supermarket only sells food, not household items.
- All supermarkets offer the same brands everywhere.
- You must use 'the' before supermarket in all contexts.
- Grocery store is only found in rural areas.
Thinking Differences
In English, supermarket emphasizes a large, multi-department store with convenience. Learners often think all 'big stores' are supermarkets, but in many places a big department store or 'hypermarket' is used differently. Pay attention to collocations like 'supermarket chain' and 'weekly shopping'.
Learning Tips
- 1) Memorize common collocations (supermarket chain, weekly shopping).
- 2) Practice distinguishing supermarket vs grocery store with size cues.
- 3) Listen for pricing language and department names.
- 4) Pronounce 'super' and 'market' clearly in one breath.
- 5) Use 'the' with a known supermarket, or specify the name.
- 6) Learn regional terms like hypermarket in some countries.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'supermarket'?
A.A place to buy books
B.A restaurant
C.A place to buy clothes
D.A large store selling groceries and other household goods
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'supermarket' correctly?
A.I bought bananas and bread at the supermarket.
B.I rented a movie at the supermarket.
C.I ate dinner at the supermarket.
D.I bought a new dress at the supermarket.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'supermarket'?
A.Bookstore
B.Cinema
C.Grocery store
D.Pharmacy
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'supermarket'?
A.Library
B.Department store
C.Bakery
D.Pet store
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you typically visit a 'supermarket'?
A.To buy clothing
B.To purchase groceries
C.To get a haircut
D.To watch a movie
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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