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"Ir de compras" is an intransitive verb phrase which is often translated as "to go shopping", and "ir a comprar" is a transitive verb phrase which is often translated as "to go to buy". Learn more about the difference between "ir de compras" and "ir a comprar" below.
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)
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.
