In this guide, we will explore various ways to express the word “cost” in Chinese, both formally and informally. We will avoid excessive regional variations to provide a comprehensive overview that can be understood by Mandarin speakers from different parts of China. Through practical tips and examples, you’ll soon be able to confidently communicate the concept of cost in Chinese.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions for “Cost”
When it comes to formal situations, such as business or professional settings, it is important to use appropriate language to convey the concept of cost. Here are a few expressions that are commonly used:
1. 费用 (fèi yòng)
This term is the most commonly used formal expression for “cost.” It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as discussing expenses, charges, or fees. It is widely understood and accepted across different regions of China.
Example: 这项服务的费用是多少？(Zhè xiàng fúwù de fèi yòng shì duō shǎo?) – What is the cost of this service?
2. 开销 (kāi xiāo)
This term specifically refers to the cost incurred in daily life or regular expenditures. It can be used when discussing personal expenses or budgeting.
Example: 你的生活开销是多少？(Nǐ de shēng huó kāi xiāo shì duō shǎo?) – What are your living costs?
Informal Ways to Say “Cost”
In casual or informal settings, such as when chatting with friends or relatives, you can use less formal expressions to refer to “cost.” Below are a few commonly used informal expressions:
1. 钱 (qián)
In colloquial Chinese, “money” is often used to indirectly refer to the concept of cost. Using this term in informal situations will be easily understood.
Example: 这个东西多少钱？(Zhè ge dōng xi duō shǎo qián?) – How much does this thing cost?
2. 值多少钱 (zhí duō shǎo qián)
When asking about the value or worth of something, this expression indirectly addresses the cost by referring to it as the price or monetary value.
Example: 你觉得这个手表值多少钱？(Nǐ jué de zhè ge shǒu biǎo zhí duō shǎo qián?) – How much do you think this watch is worth?
Useful Phrases and Tips
Now that we’ve covered formal and informal ways to say “cost” in Chinese, here are some additional phrases and tips to help you navigate conversations related to this topic:
1. Bargaining
When shopping or negotiating prices, it’s common to use expressions that convey discounts or bargaining. These phrases can be useful:
- 便宜一点可以吗？(Piányi yīdiǎn kěyǐ ma?) – Can it be cheaper?
- 能再便宜一点吗？(Néng zài piányi yīdiǎn ma?) – Can it be cheaper?
- 可以给个折扣吗？(Kěyǐ gěi gè zhékòu ma?) – Can I have a discount?
2. Clarifying Cost Details
When you want to know more specific information about the cost, you can use these phrases:
- 这个包括税吗？(Zhè ge bāokuò shuì ma?) – Does this include tax?
- 运费是多少？(Yùn fèi shì duō shǎo?) – How much is the shipping fee?
- 有没有其他费用？(Yǒu méiyǒu qítā fèi yòng?) – Are there any other fees?
3. Talking about Expensive Items
If you want to express that something is expensive, consider using the following phrases:
- 好贵啊！(Hǎo guì a!) – It’s so expensive!
- 太贵了！(Tài guì le!) – It’s too expensive!
- 真是不值！(Zhēn shì bù zhí!) – It’s really not worth it!
Remember, practice makes perfect when learning a new language. Don’t be afraid to use these expressions in your conversations, and embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in Chinese culture and language!
