off the shelf
/ɔf ðə ʃɛlf/
adjective
- Available for immediate purchase or use, without needing to be specially ordered or custom-made.
- They bought off-the-shelf software instead of developing their own.
- Off-the-shelf components are often cheaper than custom parts.
- The store sells off-the-shelf gift baskets for any occasion.
Synonyms
adverb
- In a way that involves buying a standard product rather than a custom one.
- You can purchase these tools off-the-shelf at most hardware stores.
- They prefer to get their supplies off-the-shelf rather than ordering online.
- The company decided to buy the system off-the-shelf to save time.