What's the Difference Between "For Sale" and "On Sale"?
There are many English expressions with similar words that can mean slightly different things. One example of this is the pair of terms "for sale" and "on sale." Both are related to the sale of products, but they have different meanings and usages.
This article will explain the differences between the two and will demonstrate the correct ways to use them both. Let's have a look!
What does “for sale” mean?
"For sale" is a common expression used to indicate that an item is available for purchase. It is often used in advertisements for expensive things like cars and houses.
That house is for sale for $500,000.
My car is for sale for $35,000.
That shop has rare antiques for sale.
What about “on sale”?
"On sale" is also used to refer to the purchase of goods. However, it also indicates that an item has a reduced price.
This is often used in special promotions and is usually accompanied by a discount rate or the amount of money a buyer can save compared to the original price.
These shoes are on sale for 20% off.
All of the Christmas decorations go on sale in January.
Everything in this section is on sale this week. Pick any three items for only $20.
The main differences
As we mentioned before, "for sale" indicates that an item is available for purchase, while "on sale" indicates that an item is available for purchase at a lower price than usual. These are close but not exactly the same!
In other words, just because something is for sale doesn't mean it's also on sale.
The items in this case aren't for sale.
(not available)
That game has been $60 ever since it was released. It never goes on sale.
(available, but only at the original price)
Also mentioned earlier, "for sale" is often used for large or expensive items, while "on sale" is common for everyday items and things that are likely to be discounted.
That house has been for sale since last year.
This jacket is on sale for half-price. Should I get it?
Finally, "for sale" is usually used with the verb "be." On the other hand, "on sale" can be used with both "be" and "go."
Everything is for sale except the items behind the counter.
Are these paintings for sale?
Those clothes are from last season, so they are on sale for 40% off.
Do you think these will go on sale in the future?
A special note about “go on sale”
In some situations, "go on sale" simply means "become available for purchase" and does not indicate a reduced price.
This usage is common when an item is not available yet but will be in the future, and when only a limited number of items will be available, such as concert tickets.
It hasn't gone on sale yet. Sign up for our mailing list and we'll let you know when it's available.
She's a very popular singer, so you should be ready to buy tickets as soon as they go on sale.
Don’t get mixed up!
Understanding the difference between "for sale" and "on sale" will help make English advertisements and sales promotions clearer to you. Whether you are trying to buy a house, a new pair of shoes or just snacks at a convenience store, it's important to be comfortable with these everyday English expressions.
If you'd like to learn about the differences between other similar vocabulary, we have an article all about them: What's the Difference Between These English Words?
This article was adapted from an original written by Sana
