browsing
word · lemma: browse
Definition
Looking through things casually, such as web pages, books, or in a shop, without a specific goal.
Usage & Nuances
'Browsing' is informal and common in digital contexts like 'browsing the internet,' but also applies to physical places ('browsing the shelves'). Not used when you are searching for something specific. Often confused with 'searching,' which means looking for something in particular. Collocations: 'browsing online,' 'window browsing,' 'browsing for ideas.'
Example Sentences
I wasn’t looking for anything special, just browsing.
natural
We spent the afternoon browsing at the mall.
basic
I spent an hour browsing in the bookstore.
basic
She enjoys browsing the internet for news.
basic
A lot of people spend hours browsing before buying anything online.
natural
Sometimes I just enjoy browsing without buying a thing.
natural