strip mall: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

No. A strip mall is typically a single row of stores with outdoor access and parking in front. A shopping mall (or 'enclosed mall') is usually a large, single building with an indoor concourse, multiple levels, and internal access to stores.

It is understood, especially due to exposure to American media, but it is not the primary term. British English speakers are more likely to say 'retail park', 'shopping precinct', or 'parade of shops' for similar developments.

Often convenience and service-oriented businesses: supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, dry cleaners, fast-food outlets, hair salons, nail studios, and small local restaurants. They serve immediate, everyday needs of the local community.

The 'strip' refers to the linear, strip-like layout of the stores along a road or highway. The 'mall' part comes from the older term for a promenade or walk, now associated with shopping centres.

A small shopping complex consisting of a row of stores and businesses with a common parking lot in front, usually located along a main road or highway.

Strip mall is usually informal, neutral; common in north american and australian english, now understood elsewhere. in register.

Strip mall: in British English it is pronounced /ˌstrɪp ˈmɔːl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌstrɪp ˈmɔːl/ (note: the 'mall' component often retains the /ɔːl/ vowel, though some American speakers use /ɑːl/ as in 'father'). Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.