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"Comprar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to buy", and "hacer compras" is an intransitive verb phrase which is often translated as "to shop". Learn more about the difference between "comprar" and "hacer compras" below.
comprar(
kohm
-
prahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
1. (to acquire)
a. to buy
¡Hay que comprar una piñata que hoy comienzan las posadas!We need to buy a piñata because the Posadas start today!
2. (to bribe)
a. to buy off
Los políticos malvados intentaron comprar mi silencio.The evil politicians tried to buy me off.
An intransitive verb is one that does not require a direct object (e.g., The man sneezed.).
hacer compras(
ah
-
sehr
kohm
-
prahs
)An intransitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and does not require a direct object (e.g., Everybody please stand up.).
