Self-checkout
self-CHEK-owt /self ˈtʃekaʊt/
Neutral Neutral
What it really means
Machines where you scan and pay for shopping yourself. Scan each item, put it in the bagging area, weigh loose fruit using the screen, and pay by card. Staff will come over to approve alcohol or fix errors.
Chinese explanation
自助结账机：自己扫码付款。逐件扫码后放进装袋区，散装果蔬在屏幕上选择称重，最后刷卡付款。买酒或机器报错时会有店员过来处理。
Example conversation
A: The queue's huge.
B: Use the self-checkout — it's quicker if you've only got a few bits.
A：队排得好长。
B：去自助结账吧——东西少的话快多了。
What you could say back
Related phrases
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Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team
· Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake