A1verb1K

Sell

UK /["/sel/","/selz/","/səʊld/","/ˈselɪŋ/"]/US /["/sel/","/selz/","/səʊld/","/ˈselɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to give something to somebody in exchange for money

In simple words: to give something to someone in exchange for money

Examples

  • I want to sell my old bike to buy a new one.
  • The shop will sell fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • He decided to sell his artwork at the market.
  • They sell tickets for the concert online.
  • She will sell her old clothes at the garage sale this weekend.

Usage notes

Typically used in business contexts. Avoid using in informal settings unless referring to casual transactions. 'Sell' is not suitable for non-physical items unless specified, e.g., 'sell ideas.'

Grammar pattern

sell + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'cell' where you 'sell' items – imagine a shop in a cell.

Collocations

  • cheaply
  • be able to
  • can
  • want to
  • at
  • for
  • to
  • sell something at a discount
  • sell something at a loss
  • sell something at a premium
  • cheaply
  • be able to
  • can
  • want to
  • at
  • for
  • to
  • sell something at a discount
  • sell something at a loss
  • sell something at a premium
  • cheaply
  • be able to
  • can
  • want to
  • at
  • for
  • to
  • sell something at a discount
  • sell something at a loss
  • sell something at a premium

Synonyms

  • prostitute
  • betray

Antonyms

  • buy
  • purchase

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'sell' with 'sale' (selling vs. the act of selling)
  • Using 'sell' without an object (need to specify what is being sold)
  • Incorrectly saying 'selled' instead of 'sold' as the past tense