Meaning of Word
Bought is the past tense and past participle of the verb “buy,” which means to acquire something in exchange for money or through a transaction.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Acquired ownership of something by paying money for it.
- Obtained something in exchange for resources, such as favors or goods.
- Figuratively, to gain favor, influence, or support through persuasion or bribery.
History and Origin
The word bought comes from Old English bohte, the past tense of bycgan (to buy). Its usage has remained consistent through centuries, reflecting transactional and economic activities in human society. The concept of “buying” originates from early trade systems where goods were exchanged for other goods, services, or currency.
Detailed Explanation
Bought signifies the completion of a purchasing action, whether for physical goods, intangible assets, or figurative acquisitions like loyalty or influence. In commercial contexts, it confirms a transaction where one party pays a certain value to obtain something. In figurative terms, “bought” can imply persuasion through unethical means, such as bribery. The word is commonly used in both formal and informal settings.
Example Sentences
- She bought a new dress for the party.
- They bought groceries for the entire week.
- He bought the painting at an auction.
- The company bought several smaller firms to expand its market.
- I bought tickets to the concert online.
- He bought her silence with a hefty sum of money.
- They bought their first house after years of saving.
- The tourists bought souvenirs from the local market.
- The politician bought votes through promises of government contracts.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Purchased: Acquired something by paying money.
- Acquired: Gained possession of something, often through a transaction.
- Obtained: Got something through effort, purchase, or request.
- Procured: Secured something, often with effort or planning.
- Secured: Made certain of possession, often through purchase.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Bartered: Exchanged goods or services without using money.
- Traded: Swapped goods, services, or money in a transaction.
- Invested: Spent money or resources with the expectation of future benefits.
- Exchanged: Gave one thing and received another in return.
- Negotiated: Discussed terms to finalize a transaction or agreement.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Rented: Paid to use something temporarily.
- Leased: Paid for the use of property or equipment over a period.
- Bribed: Gained something by offering money or favors illicitly.
- Contracted: Agreed to acquire goods or services under a legal agreement.
- Claimed: Took possession of something, often after meeting conditions.
Antonyms
- Sold: Transferred ownership of something in exchange for money.
- Donated: Gave something freely without expecting payment.
- Gifted: Gave something voluntarily as a present.
- Lent: Allowed someone to use something temporarily without transferring ownership.
- Returned: Gave something back after having previously taken or bought it.