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"Ir a comprar" is a transitive verb phrase which is often translated as "to go to buy", and "ir de compras" is an intransitive verb phrase which is often translated as "to go shopping". Learn more about the difference between "ir a comprar" and "ir de compras" below.
ir a comprar(
eer
ah
kohm
-
prahr
)A transitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and requires a direct object (e.g., take out the trash.).
1. (general)
a. to go to buy
Tengo que ir a comprar comida para la cena de esta noche.I need to go to buy food for tonight's dinner.
b. to go and buy
Siéntense en esta mesa. Yo iré a comprar hamburguesas y las traeré aquí.Sit at this table. I'll go and buy hamburgers and bring them here.
c. to go buy (only in infinitive or future)
Necesito ir a comprar cigarrillos.I need to go buy cigarettes.
ir de compras(
eer
deh
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.).
1. (general)
