If you’re traveling to China or simply interested in learning Mandarin, knowing how to say “discount” is a useful skill. Whether you’re looking to bargain in markets or understand the prices in Chinese stores, this guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways to express the concept of “discount” in Mandarin Chinese. We’ll also provide some regional variations when necessary. So, let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say Discount in Chinese
In formal settings, such as business conversations or professional environments, it is essential to use proper Chinese etiquette. Here are the formal ways to say “discount” in Mandarin Chinese:
1. 折扣 (zhé kòu)
The most common and formal term for “discount” in Chinese is “折扣” (zhé kòu). This term is universally understood and commonly used in various situations, including shops, retail stores, or online platforms. For instance, if you are in a store and want to know if there are any discounts available, you can ask:
请问有没有折扣？(Qǐng wèn yǒu méiyǒu zhékòu?) – Excuse me, are there any discounts?
This phrase is straightforward and easily understood by Mandarin speakers across China and other Mandarin-speaking regions.
2. 优惠 (yōuhuì)
Another formal term for “discount” is “优惠” (yōuhuì). This term is commonly used in professional settings and also has a broader meaning of “favorable” or “preferential.” For example, you might see signs outside stores saying:
全场九折优惠 (Quánchǎng jiǔ zhé yōuhuì) – 10% discount storewide
In this case, “九折” (jiǔ zhé) represents a 10% discount, and “优惠” (yōuhuì) portrays the discount itself. Remember that “优惠” (yōuhuì) is formal and used in more official situations than “折扣” (zhé kòu).
Informal Ways to Say Discount in Chinese
In casual or informal settings, such as among friends or at local markets, there are a few phrases that Mandarin speakers commonly use to talk about discounts. Here are some informal ways to say “discount” in Mandarin Chinese:
1. 打折 (dǎ zhé)
One of the most widely used informal phrases for “discount” in Mandarin Chinese is “打折” (dǎ zhé). It directly translates to “to hit the discount.” This phrase is frequently used in markets or conversations among friends. For example, you can ask a vendor:
这个可以打折吗？(Zhège kěyǐ dǎ zhé ma?) – Can this be discounted?
“这个” (zhège) means “this,” and “可以” (kěyǐ) means “can,” so you are essentially asking if the item can be discounted. Using “打折” (dǎ zhé) is a friendlier and more colloquial way to address discounts in informal situations.
2. 便宜 (piányi)
While “便宜” (piányi) translates to “cheap” or “inexpensive,” it is commonly used in informal conversations among Mandarin speakers to refer to discounts. If someone tells you the price of an item, you can respond by saying:
这个便宜一点可以吗？(Zhège piányi yīdiǎn kěyǐ ma?) – Can this be a little cheaper?
In this case, you are politely requesting a discount or haggling for a lower price. Keep in mind that using “便宜” (piányi) as a substitute for “discount” is more informal and may not be suitable in formal settings.
Regional Variations
While Mandarin Chinese is the official language in China, there are also several regional variations and dialects. However, when it comes to the term “discount,” the formal and informal ways mentioned above are widely understood throughout most Mandarin-speaking regions. Therefore, you can confidently use those terms in various parts of China, Taiwan, and Singapore, among others.
Summary
In conclusion, knowing how to say “discount” in Chinese can be incredibly beneficial, whether you’re shopping, negotiating, or simply engaging in conversations. To recap, here are the formal and informal ways to express “discount” in Mandarin Chinese:
Formal:
- 折扣 (zhé kòu) – discount
- 优惠 (yōuhuì) – discount, favorable
Informal:
- 打折 (dǎ zhé) – discount
- 便宜 (piányi) – cheap, inexpensive
Remember to use the appropriate terms based on the formality of the situation. Mandarin Chinese is a rich and nuanced language, so exploring different ways to express ideas can enhance your cultural understanding and communication skills.
