Coupon

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkuːpɒn/

Definitions

• 1. A small piece of paper or card that offers a discount or deal on a product or service.
• 2. A certificate or voucher that can be redeemed for goods, services, or discounts.
• 3. A ticket or card that provides benefits or promotional offers, such as a free item or a discount on a purchase.

Usage Examples

• She used a coupon to get 20% off her groceries.
• The store sent out coupons for free shipping on online orders.
• You can redeem the coupon for a free coffee at participating locations.

Etymology

The word "coupon" comes from the French word "couper," meaning "to cut." It originally referred to a small portion of a ticket or bond that could be cut off and redeemed for payment. Over time, its use expanded to include discount vouchers and promotional offers.

Synonyms

• Voucher
• Ticket
• Promo code
• Discount card
• Rebate

Antonyms

• Full price
• Premium
• Non-discounted

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The word "coupon" may be pronounced differently depending on the region. In American English, it is commonly pronounced as "koo-pon," while in British English, it is often pronounced as "coo-pon." Variations may also occur based on the speaker’s accent or dialect.

Historical Usage

The term "coupon" has been used since the 19th century in the context of financial bonds and certificates, where it referred to small detachable portions of a bond that could be redeemed for interest payments. Over time, the word evolved to include discount vouchers and promotional offers in the retail industry.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, coupons are viewed as a way to save money, especially during shopping events such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or seasonal sales. In some countries, such as the United States, couponing has become a hobby for many, with individuals going to great lengths to collect and use coupons for large savings.

More Information

Coupons have become an essential part of modern retail marketing, offering customers incentives to purchase products and services. They are often distributed through newspapers, email, websites, or social media platforms. The digital age has also brought about the rise of "e-coupons" or online coupons, allowing shoppers to redeem discounts directly from their smartphones or computers.