street vendor

Meaning

A 'street vendor' is a person who sells food, drinks, or goods on public streets, often from a portable cart, truck, or small stand. They are a staple of local culture and travel, offering quick and affordable local specialties.

Examples

• The street vendor on the corner sells the best tacos in the city.

  The street vendor on the corner sells the best tacos in the city.

• We bought some fresh mango slices from a local street vendor.

  We bought some fresh mango slices from a local street vendor.

• Be sure to carry cash because most street vendors don't accept credit cards.

  Be sure to carry cash because most street vendors don't accept credit cards.

• The smell of roasted nuts from the street vendors filled the cold air.

  The smell of roasted nuts from the street vendors filled the cold air.

• Are street vendors regulated by the city health department?

  Are street vendors regulated by the city health department?

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I bought a souvenir from a street seller.

  ✓ I bought a souvenir from a street vendor.

  While 'street seller' is occasionally understood, 'street vendor' is the standard, natural English term.

• ✗ There are many street vendors shops on this avenue.

  ✓ There are many street vendors on this avenue.

  A vendor operates from a cart or stand, not a permanent 'shop.' Adding 'shops' is redundant and incorrect.

Related Expressions

Practice

• I always buy hot roasted chestnuts from the ___ near the park.

  💡 A person selling goods from a cart on the sidewalk.

  Show answer

  street vendor

• Many tourists love trying local snacks from a ___ instead of eating at restaurants.

  💡 An outdoor seller on the street.

  Show answer

  street vendor