Black Friday English: 12 expressions every smart shopper should know

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Black Friday is now a global event, and it’s not just for in-store crowds anymore. Whether you’re shopping in London, Lagos or Lima, chances are your inbox and social media feeds are full of flash sales, discount codes and “limited-time offers.”

For many people, this time of year is all about saving money — or, depending on your habits, splashing out on something new.

In the UK, lots of shoppers spend the days before Black Friday window shopping — either in actual shop windows or online — to decide what they want. Others prefer to shop around, comparing prices across websites or high street chains to find the best deals.

It’s no surprise that bargain hunters are out in full force. Some use spreadsheets to track prices, others follow influencers who share promo codes and secret sales. But even then, not every deal is as good as it seems. It’s easy to get caught out by something that turns out to be a rip-off, especially when the “deal” is the same price it was last week.

That’s why many people try to plan ahead. Some set strict budgets. Others try to watch the pennies, paying attention to the little extras — like shipping costs or hidden fees — that can quickly add up.

Black Friday shopping in English expressions

Still, even the most careful shoppers sometimes feel pressure to buy things they don’t really need. That’s when buyer’s remorse kicks in — that sinking feeling that maybe that third pair of trainers wasn’t such a great idea after all.

It’s especially common among those who get caught up in the excitement and splash out on a big purchase, like a new phone or a smart TV. Of course, if you use it every day and love it, you might feel it was worth every penny. But if it stays in the box? Not so much.

For some, Black Friday comes just after payday. But for others, it’s a risky time. Too many purchases and they may end up in the red — spending more than they actually have in their account. That’s why January is the time when many people try to tighten their belts, cut back on spending and make up for the holiday splurge.

Interestingly, while individual shoppers are trying not to go in the red, retailers are hoping for the exact opposite. For many businesses, Black Friday is a crucial opportunity to move into the black — that is, to turn a profit before the end of the year.

So whether you’re a careful planner, a spontaneous spender, or just enjoying a bit of window shopping, this season is a great opportunity not just to shop — but to learn. Shopping and money are everyday topics, and the English language is full of colourful, useful expressions to describe how we spend, save, regret, and celebrate.

Black Friday English

Black Friday – The Friday after Thanksgiving (originally in the U.S.), known for major sales and shopping deals.
Flash sale – A short-term discount or special offer, usually available for a limited time only.
Splash out (on something) – To spend a lot of money on something, often as a treat or luxury.
Window shopping – Looking at items in shops (or online) without intending to buy anything at that moment.
Shop around – To compare prices and options in different shops or websites before making a purchase.
Bargain hunter – A person who actively looks for the lowest prices or best deals.
Rip-off – Something that is too expensive for what it’s worth; poor value for money.
Watch the pennies – To be careful with small expenses; to manage money cautiously.
Buyer’s remorse – The feeling of regret or disappointment after buying something, especially if it was expensive or unnecessary.
Worth every penny – Used to describe something that may be expensive but is good value and worth the cost.
In the red – To have a negative balance in your bank account; to owe more money than you have.
Tighten your belt – To reduce your spending because of financial pressure.
In the black – To be financially healthy or profitable (especially for businesses); to have a positive balance.

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