Definition:
Combien ça coûte is a French phrase that translates to "how much does it cost" in English. It is commonly used when inquiring about the price of something in French-speaking countries and regions.
When learning French, understanding the phrase "combien ça coûte" is essential for everyday interactions such as shopping, dining out, or negotiating prices. In this guide, we'll explore the meaning, usage, and nuances of this useful French expression.
Etymology:
The phrase "combien ça coûte" can be broken down into three parts: "combien" meaning "how much," "ça" meaning "it," and "coûte" meaning "costs." Together, they form a question asking about the price of something.
Part of Speech:
Combien ça coûte
phrase /kɔ̃bjɛ̃ sa kut/
Usage and Examples:
Inquiring about price: When you want to know the cost of an item or a service, you can use the phrase "combien ça coûte." For example, "Combien ça coûte cette robe ?" means "How much does this dress cost?"
Negotiating prices: This phrase is also handy when bargaining or negotiating prices. You can ask, "Combien ça coûte avec la réduction ?" which translates to "How much does it cost with the discount?"
AI Fun Fact 😅 :
In French-speaking countries, it's common to haggle over prices, especially in markets and smaller shops. Knowing how to ask "combien ça coûte" can help you navigate these situations and potentially get a better deal.
FAQ:
- Q: Is "combien ça coûte" a formal or informal phrase?
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A: "Combien ça coûte" is a neutral phrase that can be used in both formal and informal settings when inquiring about prices.
- Q: Can "combien ça coûte" be used in any context?
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A: This phrase is typically used when asking about the price of goods or services and is suitable for various situations such as shopping, dining, or negotiating.
- Q: How do you respond to "combien ça coûte"?
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A: You can respond with the price directly or provide additional information about any discounts or special offers available.
- Q: Is there a difference between "combien ça coûte" and "quel est le prix"?
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A: Both phrases ask about the price of something, but "combien ça coûte" is more commonly used in everyday conversations, while "quel est le prix" is slightly more formal.
Expressions avec "Combien ça coûte" en anglais
- Combien ça coûte cette montre : How much does this watch cost?
- Combien ça coûte pour une heure : How much does it cost for an hour?
- Combien ça coûte par personne : How much does it cost per person?
- Combien ça coûte pour la livraison : How much does it cost for delivery?
- Combien ça coûte en tout : How much does it cost in total?
- Combien ça coûte pour deux personnes : How much does it cost for two people?
- Combien ça coûte pour une nuit : How much does it cost for one night?
- Combien ça coûte par kilo : How much does it cost per kilogram?
- Combien ça coûte pour une semaine : How much does it cost for a week?
- Combien ça coûte pour une réparation : How much does it cost for a repair?
Conclusion:
"Combien ça coûte" is a versatile and practical French phrase that allows you to inquire about prices and negotiate deals effectively. By mastering the usage and expressions associated with this phrase, you can confidently navigate shopping experiences and engage in price discussions in French-speaking environments.