People often use the words ‘shopping’ and ‘marketing’ interchangeably. But, these two words are not alternatives for each other. These are not synonyms. Rather, both the words have different meanings and particular use.

Let us get a clear look into it.

Shopping

Shopping is a set of activities in which a customer searches for the available goods or services presented by the market with the potential to purchase a suitable selection.

Examples of using the word 'shopping':

• I went shopping for a new pair of shoes.
• She enjoys shopping at the mall on the weekends.
• They spent the day shopping for furniture for their new apartment.

Marketing

Marketing is a set of business activities designed to plan, price, promote, and distribute wanted products to satisfy the target markets and achieve organizational objectives.

Examples of using the word 'marketing':

• The company’s marketing strategy focuses on social media and influencer partnerships.
• He studied marketing in college and now works for a renowned advertising agency.
• Our sales have increased since we started using more targeted marketing campaigns.

Now, if we summarize, the main difference between ‘shopping’ and ‘marketing’ is:

Shopping is buying goods or services while Marketing is an activity to attract and retain buyers (customers).

*Amreta Biswas: Senior Lecturer, Dept. of Business Administration, Central Women's University.