When it comes to expressing the price of something in Chinese, there are several formal and informal ways to do so. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various methods, provide useful tips, and give numerous examples to help you master this essential aspect of the Chinese language. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Express Price
1. Using the phrase “多少钱” (duōshǎo qián): This is the direct translation of “how much money” and is one of the most common and formal ways to ask for the price of something. For instance:
Example:
Person A: “这个手提包多少钱?”
Person B: “这个手提包一共300元。”
Translation:
Person A: “How much is this handbag?”
Person B: “This handbag costs a total of 300 yuan.”
2. Using the phrase “多少钱一共” (duōshǎo qián yīgòng): This is a slightly more polite way to ask for the total price of something. It shows respect and consideration for the seller. For example:
Example:
Person A: “这本书多少钱一共?”
Person B: “这本书一共是80元。”
Translation:
Person A: “How much does this book cost in total?”
Person B: “This book costs a total of 80 yuan.”
3. Using the phrase “价钱是多少” (jiàqián shì duōshǎo): This is another formal way to ask for the price. It is particularly useful in situations where you want to emphasize the word “price.” Take a look at this example:
Example:
Person A: “这双鞋的价钱是多少?”
Person B: “这双鞋的价钱是200元。”
Translation:
Person A: “What is the price of these shoes?”
Person B: “The price of these shoes is 200 yuan.”
Informal Ways to Express Price
1. Using the phrase “多少钱啊” (duōshǎo qián a): This is a casual and friendly way to ask for the price in informal situations. The addition of “啊” at the end gives it a more conversational tone. Let’s see it in action:
Example:
Person A: “这个T恤多少钱啊?”
Person B: “这个T恤打折后只要50元啊。”
Translation:
Person A: “How much is this T-shirt?”
Person B: “This T-shirt is only 50 yuan after the discount.”
2. Using the phrase “多少钱哦” (duōshǎo qián ó): Similar to the previous method, this informal way of asking for the price adds “哦” at the end to give it a more colloquial feel. Here’s an example:
Example:
Person A: “这个手机多少钱哦?”
Person B: “这个手机2800元哦。”
Translation:
Person A: “What’s the price of this cellphone?”
Person B: “The price of this cellphone is 2800 yuan.”
Tips for Expressing Price
1. When stating the price, it is customary to include the Chinese currency “元” (yuán) at the end of the amount. For example, “100元” means “100 yuan.” 2. If the price is in whole numbers, it is common to say “一百” (yībǎi) for “100,” “二百” (èrbǎi) for “200,” and so on. 3. When expressing prices with decimals, use the word “点” (diǎn) to represent the decimal point. For instance, “145.5元” would be pronounced as “一百四十五点五元” (yībǎi sìshíwǔ diǎn wǔ yuán). 4. In some cases, you might encounter different regional variations in expressing prices. For instance, in Taiwan, “块” (kuài) is used instead of “元” (yuán) to represent the currency. 5. Remember to be polite when asking for the price. Adding “请问” (qǐngwèn) before your question, which means “may I ask,” will make your inquiry more polite. 6. It is also worth noting that prices can vary depending on the locality and the seller. Be prepared for negotiation if you are shopping in traditional markets where bargaining is common.
With these formal and informal ways to express the price of something in Chinese, along with the provided tips and examples, you are well-equipped to navigate shopping experiences, negotiate prices, and engage in friendly conversations. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to try these phrases whenever the opportunity arises. Happy language learning!
