To purchase all or a large amount of something that is available, often to gain control or prevent others from having it.
Buy as much of something as you can, so there is little or none left for others.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To purchase all or nearly all of a commodity, asset, or supply that is available, often to control the market.
"Speculators bought up most of the available farmland before the new road was announced."
"Investors have been buying up property across the city, pushing prices beyond the reach of local families."
— The Times, 2021
To purchase large quantities of goods, especially during a shortage or before a price rise.
"People bought up all the bottled water in the supermarket as soon as the storm warning was issued."
To buy upward — consuming the entire available supply.
Buy as much of something as you can, so there is little or none left for others.
Often carries a negative connotation of hoarding or monopolising. Frequently used in news reports about property markets, shares, or scarce goods.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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