store credit
STOR KRED-it
/stɔːr ˈkrɛdɪt/
A sum of money credited to a customer's account at a specific store, which can be used to buy other items from that store.
Often given when a customer doesn't have a receipt or the return period for a cash refund has passed.
The story behind the word. The word 'credit' comes from 'credere,' to trust. Store credit means the store 'trusts' that you will come back to spend that value with them.
Word relationships
- merchandise credit: Merchandise credit is a more formal industry term for store credit.
- cash refund: Cash refund allows you to spend the money anywhere.
Commonly confused with
- gift card: A gift card is usually bought for someone else; store credit is usually issued as a result of a return.
Collocations
- issue store credit
- receive store credit
- balance of store credit
Example sentences
- "Since I didn't have a gift receipt, the shop gave me store credit instead of cash." Returning a gift.
Memory hook
STORE credit keeps your money in the STORE. Store-only money.
When not to use
Do not use if the money is being returned to a credit card; that is a refund.
Fun facts
- Retailers prefer store credit because it ensures the revenue stays within the company.
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