How Do You Spell BUY?

Pronunciation: [bˈa͡ɪ] (IPA)

The word "buy" is spelled with the letters b, u, and y. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is transcribed as /baɪ/. The first sound is a voiced bilabial stop, which involves closing the lips together to make a sound. The second sound is a diphthong, which means that it starts with the first vowel sound /a/ and slides into the second vowel sound /ɪ/. The final sound is a voiced velar consonant, where the back of the tongue touches the soft palate to make the sound. Together, these sounds make up the word "buy".

BUY Meaning and Definition

  1. Buy (verb):

    1. To acquire or obtain ownership of goods, services, or assets in exchange for payment or consideration. When a person buys something, they typically trade money or equivalent value in exchange for the ownership or right to use the purchased item.

    2. To purchase or procure through financial transaction, usually involving payment of a specific amount. It involves the act of entering into a commercial transaction in which the buyer receives the item or service and the seller receives compensation in the form of money or other mutually agreed forms of payment.

    3. To secure or gain control over something by paying a price or fulfilling certain conditions. The act of buying involves the transfer of ownership, resulting in the buyer possessing the purchased item and obtaining the associated rights and privileges.

    4. To believe, accept, or be persuaded to subscribe to or support a particular idea, theory, concept, or belief. In this context, "buy" is used metaphorically to imply figuratively purchasing or accepting a certain ideology or viewpoint.

    5. To bribe or influence someone, typically used in informal or colloquial contexts. This usage refers to manipulating or persuading someone by offering something in order to obtain compliance, favor, or a desired outcome.

    In summary, "buy" primarily refers to the act of acquiring goods or services in exchange for money or equivalent value. However, it can also denote the act of accepting an idea or theory, exerting influence, or obtaining control over something through payment or other means.

  2. To obtain a right to anything by giving money or value for it; to purchase; to bribe or corrupt.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for BUY *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for BUY

Etymology of BUY

The word "buy" originates from the Old English word "bycgan" or "bycgean", which translates to "to buy" or "to acquire in exchange for money". This Old English term likely evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "bugjaną", which meant "to buy" or "to redeem". This Proto-Germanic word has cognates in other Germanic languages such as the Old Norse word "byggja" and the Old High German word "bouc(h)an". The original root of this word is uncertain, but it is believed to be possibly related to the Proto-Indo-European root "*bheug-", meaning "to bend" or "to be flexible". This connection suggests that the act of buying involved a flexible exchange or negotiation.

Idioms with the word BUY

  • buy time The idiom "buy time" means to employ tactics or take actions in order to delay a decision, gain more time, or create a temporary solution to an issue. It involves using strategies to extend a deadline, postpone an event, or defer a commitment for the purpose of gaining additional time to think, plan, or find a better solution.
  • not buy The idiom "not buy" means to not believe or accept something, to not be convinced or persuaded by something, or to not find something credible or convincing. It implies skepticism or doubts towards a certain statement, explanation, or argument.
  • buy way The phrase "buy one's way" typically means to achieve or acquire something, especially a favorable outcome or position, through the use of one's wealth, resources, or bribes. It implies that the person is using money or material possessions to bypass merit or fairness in order to obtain their desired outcome.
  • buy up The idiom "buy up" means to purchase a large amount or all of something, often with the intention of gaining control or monopolizing it.
  • buy out The idiom "buy out" refers to the act of purchasing someone's entire share or stake in a business or company. It can also refer to acquiring a majority of shares to gain control over a company.
  • buy off The idiom "buy off" means to bribe or pay someone, typically with a large sum of money, in order to persuade them to do something or to keep them quiet about a certain matter. It can also refer to paying off debts or responsibilities.
  • buy in The idiom "buy in" means to fully support or accept a particular idea, plan, or proposal. It suggests the willingness to believe in or invest in something, often implying active participation or agreement.
  • buy The idiom "buy" typically means to believe or accept something as true or valid, often without enough evidence or proof. It is often used in the context of being convinced or persuaded by someone's argument or explanation.
  • buy sth out The idiom "buy sth out" typically refers to the act of purchasing or acquiring a person's or a company's share or ownership in a business, typically with the intention of gaining full control over the company.
  • buy sm or sth out The idiom "buy someone or something out" means to purchase all or a controlling portion of someone's share or ownership in a business or property, typically resulting in total control or sole ownership by the buyer. It can also refer to acquiring all available units or stock of a particular product, often to the point of eliminating competition or monopolizing the market.
  • buy sth up The idiom "buy something up" refers to purchasing or acquiring a large quantity of something, typically in a short period of time or in a competitive manner. It can be used to describe a person or company who purchases all or most of a particular item or commodity, often in order to gain control over it or manipulate its price.
  • buy into The idiom "buy into" means to accept, believe in, or support something, especially an idea, concept, or argument. It implies that someone agrees with or is convinced by what is being presented or advocated for. It can also refer to someone investing time, effort, or money in a particular idea or project.
  • buy it The idiom "buy it" typically means to believe or accept something, often without adequate questioning or proof. It implies that someone is easily convinced or gullible.
  • buy (someone or something) out The idiom "buy (someone or something) out" refers to the act of purchasing someone's share or interest in a business, property, or venture, often resulting in the person or entity being completely removed or replaced. It can also be used to indicate the act of acquiring complete control or ownership of a company or organization by purchasing a majority of its shares or assets.
  • buy (one's) way in(to) (something) The idiom "buy one's way in(to) something" means to gain access or entry to a place, position, or privilege by paying a sum of money. It implies that money is used as a means of acquiring admission instead of meeting the necessary requirements or qualifications.
  • buy (yourself) time The idiom "buy (yourself) time" means to create additional time or delay a particular action or decision, often by using various tactics or methods. It involves finding ways to postpone a forthcoming task, confrontation, or obligation in order to acquire more time for preparation, strategizing, or thinking.
  • buy low, sell high The idiom "buy low, sell high" refers to a commonly used piece of investment advice that suggests purchasing a product or asset at a low price and selling it at a higher price to generate profit. It signifies the strategy of acquiring items or investments when their value is relatively low and then selling them when their worth has increased significantly.
  • buy (something) off the shelf The idiom "buy (something) off the shelf" means to purchase a pre-made, ready-to-use product rather than having something custom-made or specially created. It refers to buying a product that is readily available and does not require any additional time or effort.
  • buy sth sight unseen The idiom "buy something sight unseen" refers to purchasing an item without personally inspecting or evaluating it beforehand. It implies making a purchase solely based on trust, reputation, or a description of the item given by someone else, without physically seeing or examining it.
  • buy something out The idiom "buy something out" refers to the act of purchasing all or a majority of a product, business, or company's available stock or shares, effectively gaining control or ownership.
  • buy sth back (from sm) The idiom "buy something back (from someone)" refers to the act of repurchasing or regaining possession of something that was previously sold or given away to someone else. It typically implies the desire to reclaim ownership or retrieve an item that was once owned or possessed.
  • buy wolf tickets The idiom "buy wolf tickets" means to believe or accept something that is false or exaggerated. It implies being deceived or tricked into believing something that is not true.
  • buy wolf ticket The idiom "buy wolf ticket" means to fall for or be deceived by false claims or empty threats. It implies being gullible or easily swayed by deceptive tactics or empty promises. It originates from the idea of buying a ticket to see a dangerous or mythical creature like a wolf, which is impossible, as wolves are not typically exhibited like a circus or zoo attraction. Thus, "buying wolf ticket" is synonymous with being fooled or tricked.
  • buy on credit The idiom "buy on credit" refers to the act of purchasing goods or services and agreeing to pay for them at a later date, typically with interest. It means to make a purchase using a credit card or obtaining a loan from a lending institution, rather than paying with cash upfront.
  • buy sight unseen The idiom "buy sight unseen" refers to purchasing something without seeing or inspecting it beforehand. It refers to making a purchase based solely on trust or faith in the product, often relying on a description or recommendation from someone else.
  • buy (something) on time The idiom "buy (something) on time" means to purchase something and pay for it gradually over a set period, typically in installments or through a payment plan, rather than paying the full amount upfront. It refers to the act of acquiring an item without immediately providing the full payment.
  • buy a round The idiom "buy a round" refers to the act of purchasing drinks for a group of people, typically friends or colleagues, in a social setting, such as a bar or pub. It is a gesture of hospitality and camaraderie, where the person buying the round pays for everyone's drinks as a token of goodwill or celebration.
  • buy a round (of drinks) The idiom "buy a round (of drinks)" means to purchase beverages, typically alcoholic ones, for a group of people as an act of generosity and to foster camaraderie. It entails paying for a complete set of drinks for everyone in the group, often taking turns among the members.
  • buy you a drink? The idiom "buy you a drink" means to offer to pay for someone's alcoholic beverage as a gesture of friendliness, hospitality, or attraction. It is commonly used as a polite way to socialize, get to know someone better, or to express interest in someone romantically.
  • best buy The definition of the idiom "best buy" refers to a product or item that is considered to be of exceptional quality or value for the price. It usually implies that the particular purchase is the most advantageous option among other alternatives in terms of quality and cost.
  • buy a/the round (of drinks) The idiom "buy a/the round (of drinks)" means to purchase drinks for a group of people, typically in a social setting such as a bar, pub, or gathering. The person buying the round is usually offering to pay for everyone's drinks as a gesture of hospitality, friendship, or celebration.
  • buy into (something) The idiom "buy into (something)" means to believe or accept a particular idea, concept, or proposition, often without questioning or doubting it. It refers to when a person or group fully agrees with or supports a certain belief, philosophy, or perspective. It can also imply investing emotionally, mentally, or financially in something.
  • buy back The idiom "buy back" refers to the act of repurchasing something that was previously sold or given away. It represents reclaiming ownership or possession of an item or asset by paying a specific price to acquire it again. It can also imply the act of redeeming or reacquiring something that was lost or taken away.
  • buy something The idiom "buy something" typically means to believe or accept a certain idea, story, or explanation, often without questioning it or considering other perspectives. It can also imply being convinced or deceived by something or someone.
  • money can't buy happiness The idiom "money can't buy happiness" refers to the belief that material wealth and possessions are not a guarantee of happiness or inner fulfillment. It suggests that true happiness is derived from non-materialistic factors such as relationships, experiences, personal growth, and overall contentment.
  • buy sth on credit The idiom "buy something on credit" refers to the act of purchasing a product or service with the understanding that payment will be made at a later time, usually with interest or fees added. It means using credit or borrowing money from the seller or a financial institution to make a purchase without immediate payment.
  • buy the farm The idiom "buy the farm" typically means to die, especially in the context of a sudden or unexpected death. It originated from the idea that if a person dies, their family may receive a payout from an insurance policy, enabling them to pay off the mortgage on their farm.
  • buy cheap, buy twice The idiom "buy cheap, buy twice" means that if you purchase something of low quality or at a low price, you will end up having to buy it again or spend more money on repairs or replacements in the long run. It suggests that investing in a higher quality or more expensive item initially may be more cost-effective and provide better value over time.
  • buy a pig in a poke The idiom "buy a pig in a poke" means to make a purchase without inspecting or fully understanding what is being bought. It refers to making a blind purchase or accepting something without ensuring its quality, reliability, or value. The phrase originates from the act of buying a "poke" (a sack or bag) containing a live pig, where the buyer cannot see or examine the animal before making the purchase.
  • buy, get, etc. something off the shelf The idiom "buy, get, etc. something off the shelf" means to purchase or obtain a product that is readily available from a store or supplier, without the need for it to be specially made or ordered. It refers to the act of acquiring an item that is already prepared and ready for sale.
  • the best that money can buy The idiom "the best that money can buy" means the highest quality or most luxurious option available for purchase, often implying that no expense has been spared in acquiring it.
  • buy way out The idiom "buy one's way out" means to use money or resources to escape a difficult or undesirable situation. It suggests that by paying a sum or offering some form of compensation, a person can avoid consequences or find a solution to a problem.
  • buy on time The idiom "buy on time" refers to the act of purchasing something with the agreement to make payments over an extended period, rather than paying the full amount upfront. It typically involves entering into an installment or credit plan, allowing the buyer to enjoy or use the item immediately while paying for it gradually.
  • buy way in The idiom "buy way in" typically refers to the act of using money or influence to gain entry or access, usually to a certain event, group, or position that is otherwise difficult or exclusive to enter. It implies bypassing normal procedures or requirements by paying or using connections to secure a place.
  • not buy sth The idiom "not buy something" refers to not accepting, believing, or being convinced by something, usually an idea, explanation, or excuse. It suggests a lack of faith or trust in the information or claim presented. It can also indicate a refusal to be deceived or persuaded.
  • buy (something) sight unseen The idiom "buy (something) sight unseen" means to purchase an item or product without physically seeing or inspecting it beforehand. It refers to making a decision to buy solely based on descriptions, reputation, or trust in the seller, without any direct personal evaluation.
  • buy the big one The idiom "buy the big one" typically refers to the act of suffering a major loss, failure, or setback. It can also imply experiencing a significant disappointment or consequence as a result of a decision or action.
  • buy (something) back (from someone) The idiom "buy (something) back (from someone)" means to repurchase an item or property that was previously owned by oneself, but had been sold or given to someone else.
  • (Could I) buy you a drink? The idiom "(Could I) buy you a drink?" is a polite way to ask someone if you can purchase a beverage for them, typically in a social setting such as a bar or restaurant. This phrase is often used as a polite and casual way to initiate conversation or express interest in getting to know someone better.
  • Why buy a cow when you can get milk for free? The idiom "Why buy a cow when you can get milk for free?" is a saying that suggests there is no need to pay for something when you can get it for no cost. It is often used in a metaphorical sense to imply that there is no need to commit to a long-term or permanent investment when the benefits or advantages can be obtained without any additional responsibilities or obligations.
  • Buy the book The idiom "Buy the book" means to strictly comply with rules, regulations, or guidelines. It refers to following instructions or performing a task exactly as prescribed, without taking any shortcuts or improvising. Typically, it suggests that one should adhere to established procedures or standards without deviation or compromise.
  • buy (something) on tick The idiom "buy (something) on tick" means to make a purchase by using credit or borrowing money, with the understanding that one will pay for it later.
  • buy (something) on credit The idiom "buy (something) on credit" means to purchase a product or service by promising to pay for it at a later date, typically with interest added. It refers to the act of obtaining an item without immediately providing the full payment and entering into a financial agreement where the buyer makes periodic payments until the debt is settled.
  • buy to let The idiom "buy to let" refers to the act of purchasing a property or real estate with the intention of renting it out to tenants, typically as a long-term investment for generating rental income and potential capital growth. It is commonly used in the context of the real estate market and investment strategies.
  • buy (one's) way out (of something) The idiom "buy one's way out (of something)" means to use money or financial influence to escape or avoid a negative or difficult situation, often by making a payment or financial arrangement. It implies that someone is able to resolve a problem or evade punishment through monetary means rather than facing the consequences directly.
  • buy sth at sth The idiom "buy something at something" generally means to purchase something at a specific price or cost. It implies the act of acquiring a particular item or product in exchange for a specified amount of money.
  • (Can I) buy you a drink? The idiom "(Can I) buy you a drink?" is a polite way of expressing interest in getting to know someone better or engaging in conversation. It usually refers to offering to purchase a beverage for someone as a gesture of friendliness or as an icebreaker.
  • buy the box The idiom "buy the box" generally refers to purchasing a set or collection of items as a whole, rather than individual parts. It often implies acquiring a complete package or deal, which may be more advantageous or cost-effective than buying individual elements separately.
  • get, buy, etc. something on tick The idiom "get, buy, etc. something on tick" refers to acquiring or purchasing something with the promise to pay for it at a later time or in installments. It implies obtaining an item on credit or by means of a deferred payment arrangement.
  • buy something (from someone) (for something) The idiom "buy something (from someone) (for something)" means to purchase an item or product from someone by exchanging it for a certain amount of money or other resources.
  • buy straw hats in winter The idiom "buy straw hats in winter" refers to a situation where someone is making an ill-timed or impractical decision. It suggests that the person is purchasing something that would be more appropriate or useful in a different season or circumstances, indicating a lack of foresight, wisdom, or common sense in their decision-making.
  • buy something at something The idiom "buy something at something" usually means to purchase something at a specific price or value. It refers to the act of acquiring an item or making a transaction at a particular cost or in exchange for a certain amount of money.
  • buy (a/one's) wolf ticket The idiom "buy (a/one's) wolf ticket" means to be deceived or tricked into believing something false or misleading. It refers to a situation where someone falls for a false promise, takes something at face value without questioning its authenticity, or gets duped into investing in something that turns out to be a scam or hoax. The phrase originates from the idea of purchasing a ticket to see a wolf, which ultimately leads to disappointment because there is no real wolf to be seen.
  • buy sm's wolf ticket The idiom "buy someone's wolf ticket" means to believe or fall for someone's false story, exaggeration, or bluff. It implies being deceived or tricked by someone's deceptive claims or empty promises.
  • buy trouble The idiom "buy trouble" means to willingly or unnecessarily involve oneself in a problematic or difficult situation by making a poor decision or taking unnecessary risks. It suggests that the person is deliberately inviting or inviting unnecessary difficulties or complications into their life.
  • buy something up The idiom "buy something up" means to purchase or acquire a large quantity of something, often with the intention of gaining control over it or preventing others from obtaining it.
  • buy someone off The idiom "buy someone off" means to bribe or pay someone in order to persuade them to do something or to keep them from taking action against you. It typically implies using money or other incentives to influence or manipulate someone's behavior or actions.
  • buy at
  • buy someone’s woof ticket
  • buy the rabbit
  • sell somebody/buy a pup The idiom "sell somebody/buy a pup" means to deceive or cheat someone, typically by selling them something that is not as valuable or legitimate as they were led to believe. It can also refer to being tricked or misled into believing something that is not true.

Similar spelling words for BUY

Plural form of BUY is BUYS

Conjugate verb Buy

CONDITIONAL PERFECT

I would have bought
you would have bought
he/she/it would have bought
we would have bought
they would have bought
I would have buy
you would have buy
he/she/it would have buy
we would have buy
they would have buy

CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE

I would have been buying
you would have been buying
he/she/it would have been buying
we would have been buying
they would have been buying

CONDITIONAL PRESENT

I would buy
you would buy
he/she/it would buy
we would buy
they would buy

CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE

I would be buying
you would be buying
he/she/it would be buying
we would be buying
they would be buying

FUTURE

I will buy
you will buy
he/she/it will buy
we will buy
they will buy

FUTURE CONTINUOUS

I will be buying
you will be buying
he/she/it will be buying
we will be buying
they will be buying

FUTURE PERFECT

I will have bought
you will have bought
he/she/it will have bought
we will have bought
they will have bought

FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I will have been buying
you will have been buying
he/she/it will have been buying
we will have been buying
they will have been buying

IMPERATIVE

you buy
we let´s buy

NONFINITE VERB FORMS

to buy

PAST CONTINUOUS

I was buying
you were buying
he/she/it was buying
we were buying
they were buying

PAST PARTICIPLE

bought

PAST PERFECT

I had bought
you had bought
he/she/it had bought
we had bought
they had bought

PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I had been buying
you had been buying
he/she/it had been buying
we had been buying
they had been buying

PRESENT

I buy
you buy
he/she/it buys
we buy
they buy

PRESENT CONTINUOUS

I am buying
you are buying
he/she/it is buying
we are buying
they are buying

PRESENT PARTICIPLE

buying

PRESENT PERFECT

I have bought
you have bought
he/she/it has bought
we have bought
they have bought

PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I have been buying
you have been buying
he/she/it has been buying
we have been buying
they have been buying

PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE

he/she/it buy

SIMPLE PAST

I bought
you bought
he/she/it bought
we bought
they bought

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