off-licence Meaning
Keyword: Off-licence
Definition: An off-licence refers to a retail establishment that is licensed to sell alcoholic beverages which customers can consume off the premises. This contrasts with on-licence venues, such as bars and restaurants, where alcohol is sold for consumption on the premises. Off-licences often stock a variety of alcoholic beverages, including beers, wines, and spirits.
Usage:
- “I stopped by the off-licence to pick up some wine for dinner.”
- “The off-licence had a wide selection of craft beers.”
Etymology: The term “off-licence” originated from British English. The prefix “off” refers to the consumption of alcohol “off the premises,” and “licence” denotes the legal permission granted to sell alcohol. The term became popular in the UK, largely due to the Licensing Act of 1964, which regulated the sale of alcohol.
Pronunciation: /ˈɒf.laɪ.səns/
Synonyms: liquor store, bottle shop (primarily used in Australia and New Zealand), off-licence shop
Antonyms: On-licence (which refers to establishments that serve alcohol for consumption on-site)
This term is commonly used in the context of British English and may not be as familiar to speakers of American English, where similar establishments are typically referred to as liquor stores or package stores.
- I stopped by the off-licence to pick up some wine for the dinner party.
- The local off-licence sells a variety of craft beers and spirits.
- He forgot to buy snacks at the off-licence before heading to the beach.
- The off-licence had a special promotion on whiskey this weekend.
- After work, she often visits the off-licence to unwind with a cold beer at home.
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