What is デパート?
デパート is a common abbreviation for デパートメントストア, meaning "department store." It refers to large retail buildings divided into sections selling various goods like clothing, cosmetics, food, and household items.
Usage and Context
This word is widely used in everyday conversation in Japan, especially when talking about shopping or meeting places. It is a casual term but appropriate in most social contexts.
Common Collocations
- デパートで買い物する: to shop at a department store
- デパートの地下: the basement of a department store (often food section)
- デパートのセール: department store sale
Tips for Learners
Be aware that デパート often implies a large, well-known store with multiple floors and a variety of products. It is different from smaller shops or supermarkets. Avoid confusing it with コンビニ (convenience store), which is much smaller and open 24 hours.
Using デパート in sentences about shopping or meeting places will sound natural and clear to native speakers.