Learning how to ask “How much is this?” in Mandarin Chinese can be a useful skill, whether you are planning to visit China or simply want to expand your language repertoire. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to ask this question, as well as provide tips, examples, and regional variations where applicable. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “How Much is This?”
1. “这个多少钱？” (Zhè ge duōshǎo qián?) – This is the most common and straightforward way to ask the price of something in Mandarin. It is considered formal and appropriate to use in most situations.
2. “请问这个多少钱?” (Qǐngwèn zhè ge duōshǎo qián?) – If you want to add a touch of politeness, you can begin with “请问” (Qǐngwèn), which translates to “Excuse me, may I ask?”. This makes the question more formal and shows respect towards the person you are addressing.
3. “我想问一下，这个的价格是多少?” (Wǒ xiǎng wèn yíxià, zhè ge de jiàgé shì duōshǎo?) – This slightly longer phrase conveys a more polite tone. It can be used in more formal contexts, such as when speaking to someone in a higher position or at a special event.
Informal Ways to Say “How Much is This?”
1. “这个多少钱?” (Zhè ge duōshǎo qián?) – Yes, this phrase can also be used informally. It is common in casual conversations between friends or when bargaining with street vendors. The tone and context determine whether it’s formal or informal.
2. “这个多少钱呀?” (Zhè ge duōshǎo qián ya?) – By adding “呀” (ya) at the end, you make the sentence sound friendlier and more casual. It is often used when talking to someone you are familiar with, such as family members or close friends.
3. “这玩意儿多少钱啊?” (Zhè wányìr duōshǎo qián a?) – The addition of “玩意儿” (wányìr), which means “this thing” or “this item,” adds a colloquial touch to the sentence. This variant is typical of northern Mandarin dialects.
Tips for Asking “How Much is This?” in Mandarin
1. Non-verbally point: If you’re struggling with the pronunciation, you can simply point to the item and raise your eyebrows. It is a universal gesture to communicate your intent to inquire about the price.
2. Context matters: Depending on the situation, you might need to modify your question slightly. For example, when in a market, you can ask “多少钱一斤?” (Duōshǎo qián yī jīn?), which means “How much does it cost per kilogram?”. Adapting the question to suit your needs will help you get the information you require.
3. Practice numbers and units: To fully understand the response to your question, it is essential to be familiar with Mandarin numbers and currency units. Spend some time practicing numbers up to at least 100 and learning the currency units (元 – yuán for Yuan, 角 – jiǎo for Jiao, 分 – fēn for Fen).
Examples
Below are a few examples of using the phrases we’ve discussed:
Example 1:
Person A: 这个多少钱？(Zhè ge duōshǎo qián?)
Person B: 十元。(Shí yuán.)
Person A: 谢谢！(Xièxiè!)
Translation:
Person A: How much is this?
Person B: Ten Yuan.
Person A: Thank you!
Example 2:
Person A: 请问这个多少钱? (Qǐngwèn zhè ge duōshǎo qián?)
Person B: 这个八十块。(Zhè ge bāshí kuài.)
Person A: 虽然有点贵，但我买了。(Suīrán yǒudiǎn guì, dàn wǒ mǎi le.)
Translation:
Person A: Excuse me, how much is this?
Person B: This is eighty Yuan.
Person A: Although it’s a little expensive, I’ll buy it.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now learned various ways to ask “How much is this?” in Mandarin Chinese. Remember to adapt your language to the formality of the situation and practice your numbers. Whether bargaining at a local market or conversing with a shopkeeper, these phrases will come in handy during your Mandarin language journey. Enjoy exploring the rich language and cultural experiences that await you!
