Douglas Cory
Greetings! If you find yourself wandering around the beautiful cities of Germany, it’s always useful to know how to ask about prices. Whether you’re in a formal or informal setting, I’m here to guide you on how to say “How much does this cost?” in German. Let’s dive right in!
Formal Ways to Ask the Question
When you need to ask about the price of something in a polite or formal context, such as in a fancy boutique or a high-end restaurant, the following phrases will come in handy:
1. Wie viel kostet das?
Translation: How much does that cost?
This simple yet effective question is ideal for most situations. Just replace “das” with the specific item you want to inquire about. For instance, “Wie viel kostet dieser Pullover?” (How much does this sweater cost?).
2. Was kostet das?
Translation: What does that cost?
If you prefer a slightly more general approach, this alternative phrase can also be used. Similarly, you can substitute “das” with the particular item you are interested in.
Informal Ways to Ask the Question
When you’re in a casual setting or speaking with friends, family, or acquaintances, a friendly tone is more appropriate. Here are a couple of informal phrases you can use:
1. Was kostet das hier?
Translation: What does this cost here?
The addition of “hier” (here) in this question gives it a more conversational feel. It’s perfect when you want to ask the price of something nearby without sounding too formal.
2. Was musst du dafür hinblättern?
Translation: What do you have to shell out for that?
This phrase is quite colloquial and conveys a sense of familiarity. It’s commonly used among friends. Remember to replace “dafür” with the item of interest, like “Was musst du für diese Schuhe hinblättern?” (What do you have to shell out for these shoes?).
Tips and Examples
Now that you are armed with formal and informal ways to ask about prices in German, here are some additional tips and examples to help you master the art of pricing inquiries:
1. Be prepared for the response:
When you ask about the price, you might hear “Es kostet …” (It costs …) or “Das kostet …” (That costs …). This way, you’ll know how to quickly comprehend the answer.
2. Utilize numbers when responding:
It’s essential to understand the German numbers to discuss prices smoothly. Don’t worry, they are relatively straightforward to learn. For example, if the item costs 50 euros, you can respond with “Fünfzig Euro” (Fifty euros).
3. Politeness goes a long way:
Remember to use “bitte” (please) when asking the question, even in informal settings. Adding “bitte” shows your polite intentions and will be greatly appreciated.
Example:
Informal:
Person A: Was kostet das hier, bitte? (What does this cost here, please?)
Person B: Es kostet 20 Euro. (It costs 20 euros.)
Formal:
Person A: Wie viel kostet das, bitte? (How much does that cost, please?)
Person B: Das kostet 50 Euro. (That costs 50 euros.)
4. Regional Variations:
German is spoken in several regions and countries, and thus, there might be slight variations in how people ask about prices. However, the phrases provided above should serve you well in most situations. Don’t hesitate to adapt if you encounter different expressions.
Final Words
Congratulations! You can now confidently ask about prices in German, both in formal and informal situations. Just remember to use the appropriate phrases based on the setting, and don’t forget to wear your friendliest smile when conversing with locals. Learning these simple yet valuable phrases will undoubtedly enhance your experiences during your German adventures. Wishing you a fantastic time and happy shopping!
