thrifting: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
CommonInformal to neutral
Quick answer
What does “thrifting” mean?
The activity of shopping for second-hand items at low prices, typically in thrift stores or charity shops.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The activity of shopping for second-hand items at low prices, typically in thrift stores or charity shops.
Can refer to the broader practice of frugal and sustainable shopping, often as a hobby or lifestyle choice emphasizing environmental consciousness.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In American English, 'thrifting' commonly refers to shopping at thrift stores, while in British English, it is often associated with charity shops. The term itself is more prevalent in AmE but understood in BrE.
Connotations
In the US, it is often seen as trendy and economical; in the UK, it may have stronger ties to charitable giving and community support.
Frequency
More frequently used in American English, but gaining popularity in British English due to global sustainability trends.
Grammar
How to Use “thrifting” in a Sentence
to go thriftingthrifting for vintage clothesengaged in thriftingVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “thrifting” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She often goes thrifting at the local charity shops on weekends.
American English
- He thrifts every Saturday to discover unique vintage pieces.
adjective
British English
- Her thrifting habit has led to a colourful and economical wardrobe.
American English
- Thrifting culture is booming, with many influencers sharing their finds online.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to the thrift store industry, sustainable retail models, or resale market analytics.
Academic
Used in studies on consumer behavior, circular economy, or environmental sustainability in fashion.
Everyday
Casual conversation about shopping for used items, saving money, or finding unique goods.
Technical
In fashion or economics, discussing second-hand markets, supply chains, or waste reduction strategies.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “thrifting”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “thrifting”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “thrifting”
- Using 'thrifting' as a standalone verb without 'go' (e.g., 'I thrifted' is informal; better: 'I went thrifting').
- Misspelling as 'thrifing' or assuming it only applies to clothing.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, thrifting can include a wide range of second-hand goods such as furniture, books, electronics, and home decor.
Thrifting reduces waste by extending the life of products, lowering demand for new manufacturing, and minimizing landfill contributions.
Yes, online platforms like eBay or Depop have made virtual thrifting popular, allowing people to buy and sell used items digitally.
It can be both; thrifting is often seen as a smart way to save money while also being trendy, especially with the rise of vintage and sustainable fashion movements.
The activity of shopping for second-hand items at low prices, typically in thrift stores or charity shops.
Thrifting is usually informal to neutral in register.
Thrifting: in British English it is pronounced /ˈθrɪftɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈθrɪftɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “One man's trash is another man's treasure”
- “Thrift store chic”
- “Fashion on a budget”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'thrift' as saving money, so 'thrifting' is shopping to save, like hunting for treasures in discarded items.
Conceptual Metaphor
Thrifting is treasure hunting; Thrifting is sustainable living.
Practice
Quiz
What is the core meaning of 'thrifting'?