Sale vs. Sell: Understanding The Difference

“Sale vs. Sell” can be a tricky pair of words to differentiate for English learners. Understanding when to use each word is crucial for clear communication. In this reference, you will explore the nuances between “sale” and “sell” to help you use them accurately in your conversations and writing. By the end of this reference, you’ll have a better grasp of how to choose the right word for the right context.

The Difference Between Sale and Sell

Sale vs. Sell: Key Takeaways

• ‘Sale’ is a noun referring to the event or instance of selling.
• ‘Sell’ is a verb relating to the act of offering goods or services in exchange for money.

Sale vs. Sell: The Definition

What Does Sale Mean?

Sale is a noun that refers to a transaction between two parties where the ownership of an item is transferred from seller to buyer, usually for money.

The term “sale” can also encompass promotional events or periods during which items are offered at reduced prices, often with the aim of increasing revenue or clearing inventory. In a broader sense, “sale” can denote the act of making something available for purchase or trade.

Examples:

• Normal transactions: “The gallery holds a painting sale once a year.”
• Discount events: “There’s a clearance sale this weekend.”

What Does Sell Mean?

To sell means to offer or make available something that you own to someone else in return for payment. It denotes the act of persuading someone to buy something from you.

Examples:

• Ongoing selling: “She sells real estate.”
• One-time action: “I plan to sell my old laptop.”

Tips To Remember The Differences

• ‘Sale’: Think of a store sign announcing an event.
• ‘Sell’: Envision the action an individual takes at a marketplace.

Sale vs. Sell: Examples

Example Sentences Using Sale

• The annual book sale starts next week.
• I got an amazing deal during the holiday sale.
• I’m having a sale on all my old furniture this weekend.
• The department store is having a big sale on winter coats.
• The company announced a significant sale on their latest product line.

Example Sentences Using Sell

• She sells handcrafted jewelry online.
• The company aims to sell its new product line to international markets.
• She plans to sell her artwork at the upcoming art fair.
• The real estate agent will work to sell the property at the best price.
• The store will sell the latest smartphones at discounted prices during the holiday season.

Related Confused Words With Sale or Sell

Sail vs. Sale

While sail involves travel by boat, sale pertains to a transaction.

• Sail: verb/noun – to travel in a boat, especially for pleasure.
• Sale: noun – the act of selling something; the exchange of goods, property, or services for an agreed sum of money or value.

Examples: 

• The captain will sail the ship across the ocean.
• The store is having a big sale on shoes this weekend.

Cell vs. Sell

Cell refers to a biological unit or a small room, whereas sell is to exchange something for money.

• Cell: noun – the smallest structural unit of an organism or a small room in a prison or convent.
• Sell: verb/noun – to exchange something for money; the act of persuading someone of the merits of.

Examples: 

• The cell is the basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms.
• He tried to sell his old car to make some extra money.

Here is a quick reference table to summarize: