Buyer's Remorse

Conversation

Feifei

Hi Neil. Nice shoes!

Neil

Really, Feifei? I'm not sure about them.

Feifei

They look cool. Orange is very… original!

Neil

You're just being nice. I've decided buying orange shoes was a bad move. I look stupid.

Feifei

Were they expensive?

Neil

Very expensive.

Feifei

You know what? I think you're suffering from buyer's remorse!

Neil

I suppose I do regret buying them.

Feifei

Buyer's remorse is our phrase in this The English We Speak. It's a particular kind of regret people can feel after a big purchase like a house or a car. They feel they've made a bad decision.

Neil

Yes, that sounds right! Have you ever felt it?

Feifei

Yes, after I bought my new bike. Thankfully, the feeling passed. I love my bike now. Listen to these examples.

Examples

A: I made a terrible decision buying this house. It's in a bad location and it needs a lot of repairs. What was I thinking?B: Sounds like buyer's remorse, my friend. Relax. The repairs aren't serious and it only takes five minutes to get to the train station.A: Lovely new car!B: Thanks, but I'm feeling terrible buyer's remorse right now. It was so expensive. What if I lose my job?A: Why did I order lobster soup? Your potato soup was half the price, and it is tastier.B: I know the feeling - I always order the wrong thing then get some serious buyer's remorse. Let's share.

Feifei

You're listening to The English We Speak from BBC Learning English. The expression we're looking at in this programme is buyer's remorse. So, Neil. Feeling any better now?

Neil

You know, the funny thing is, I bought these shoes to cheer myself up!

Feifei

Oh, a bit of retail therapy, was it? Buying something to make yourself feel happier. It doesn't always work!

Neil

Sadly not.

Feifei

Hey, aren't they running shoes?

Neil

Yes.

Feifei

Well, how about this for a crazy idea: go for a run in them! That will make you feel better.

Neil

You're probably right, as always, Feifei!

Feifei

And by the way, I do think they look great. Orange suits you.

Neil

Oh, thanks. I guess they are pretty… unique.

Both

Bye.