B2noun2K

Pharmacy

UK /["/ˈfɑːməsi/"]/US /["/ˈfɑːrməsi/"]/

Definition

a shop, or part of one, that sells medicines and drugs

In simple words: A store where you buy medicine and health products.

Examples

  • The cream is available at/from/in pharmacies without a prescription.
  • Research is bringing more effective new drugs to pharmacy shelves.

Usage notes

Use 'pharmacy' when talking about businesses that sell medicine. Don't confuse with other shops; 'pharmacies' often have trained staff to help with health-related questions.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Remember 'pharmacy' by thinking of 'farm' where you grow health!

Collocations

  • community
  • hospital
  • local
  • business
  • chain
  • counter
  • available at pharmacies
  • available from pharmacies
  • available in pharmacies
  • community
  • hospital
  • local
  • business
  • chain
  • counter
  • available at pharmacies
  • available from pharmacies
  • available in pharmacies

Synonyms

  • drugstore
  • chemist
  • dispensary
  • apothecary

Antonyms

  • black market
  • illegal drug sale

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'drugstore' which may not have prescriptions.
  • Using inappropriately in informal contexts where 'drugstore' is more common.
  • Mispronouncing the word, especially the 'ph' sound.