Shopping in English: 15 phrases for sizes, prices and returns
In a shop the staff will usually start the conversation – “Can I help you?” – and most people freeze and say “No, thanks”. Here is how to answer, ask for what you want, pay and, if needed, take it back.
Three conversations in a shop
Shopping English comes down to three short conversations: finding what you want (help, sizes, colours), paying (price, card, bag) and sometimes returning it. Each one uses a handful of fixed phrases.
15 phrases for shopping
| Phrase | When to use it |
|---|---|
| “I'm just looking, thanks.” | When you don't need help yet |
| “Actually, could you help me? I'm looking for a winter jacket.” | When you do |
| “Do you have this in a medium / in size 40?” | Sizes |
| “Do you have it in black?” | Colours |
| “Can I try it on?” / “Where are the fitting rooms?” | Trying clothes |
| “It's a bit too small / too big.” | After trying |
| “How much is this?” | Price |
| “Is this on sale?” | Discounts |
| “I'll take it.” | Deciding to buy |
| “Can I pay by card?” | Paying |
| “I don't need a bag, thanks.” | At the till |
| “Could I have a receipt, please?” | Keeping proof |
| “I'd like to return this. It doesn't fit.” | Returns |
| “Can I exchange it for a bigger size?” | Exchanges |
| “Can I get a refund?” | Getting the money back |
A sample dialogue in a clothes shop
Assistant: Hi, can I help you with anything?
You: Yes, please. Do you have this shirt in a medium?
Assistant: Let me check… Yes, here you go. The fitting rooms are at the back.
You: Thanks.
You: (later) It fits well. Do you have it in blue as well?
Assistant: Only in white and grey, I'm afraid.
You: OK, I'll take the white one. Is it on sale?
Assistant: Yes, it's 20% off, so 32 instead of 40.
You: Great. Can I pay by card?
Assistant: Sure. Do you need a bag?
You: No, thanks. Could I have a receipt, please?
Returns, in short
Keep the receipt and say the reason in one sentence: “I'd like to return this. It doesn't fit / it's damaged / I changed my mind.” The assistant will usually ask “Would you like a refund or an exchange?” Return rules differ by country and shop, so if it matters, ask before you pay: “What's your return policy?”
Common mistakes
- “How much costs this?” The question is “How much is this?” or “How much does this cost?”
- “Can I prove it?” In some languages the word for “try on” sounds like prove or probe. In English you try on clothes.
- “It's too much small.” Use too alone, or soften it: “It's too small” / “It's a bit too small.”
How to practise
- Say the size, colour and price questions for three things you'd really buy.
- Practise the return sentence with three different reasons.
- Rehearse once with someone who says “we don't have it” – and ask for an alternative.
Related: ordering at a café or restaurant and English for taxis.
Practising it with Ling
Ling AI is an iPhone and iPad app for spoken English. Lessons are live 3–4 minute voice scenes with Sophia, an AI speaking partner, chosen for your goal and level. Tap Hint for a phrase when you're stuck, switch to your language if it's too hard, and finish with one main mistake to fix.
About 5 minutes of voice every day are free. iPhone and iPad with iOS 17 or later; no Android version yet.