18 Phrases for Negotiating a Price
Negotiating a price in English doesn’t have to feel awkward or pushy. With the right words, you can be respectful, confident, and successful. These 18 phrases for negotiating a price will help you get a fair deal—in markets, online sales, service quotes, or even rental discussions—while keeping the conversation friendly and professional.
Common Ways to Say ‘Can You Lower the Price?’
Polite & Friendly Openers
- Is this the best price you can offer? Gentle and non-confrontational—invites negotiation. This rug is beautiful—is this the best price you can offer?
- Would you consider a lower price? Respectful and leaves room for discussion. Would you consider a lower price if I pay in cash?
- Do you have any flexibility on the price? Professional and commonly used in service or rental talks. Do you have any flexibility on the price for a longer stay?
- I love it, but it’s a bit over my budget. Honest and relatable—often leads to a counteroffer. I love it, but it’s a bit over my budget. Any chance of a discount?
- Could we meet in the middle? Suggests compromise—fair and collaborative. You’re asking $200, I offered $150—could we meet in the middle?
Confident & Direct (But Still Polite)
- What’s your lowest price? Common in markets or informal sales. What’s your lowest price for this jacket?
- Would you take [amount] for it? Clear and specific—makes the offer easy to respond to. Would you take $75 for these shoes?
- I can offer you [amount]. States your limit calmly and confidently. I can offer you $300 for the bike.
- Is that your final offer? Useful when you feel there’s still room to negotiate. Is that your final offer, or can we adjust it?
Leveraging Value or Comparison
- I saw a similar item for less elsewhere. Encourages matching or beating a competitor’s price. I saw a similar lamp for less elsewhere—can you do better?
- If I buy two, can you give me a discount? Great for bundles or bulk deals. If I buy two, can you give me a discount?
- This has a small scratch—can you lower the price? Points out a flaw to justify a reduction. This has a small scratch—can you lower the price a bit?
- I’m ready to buy today if the price works. Shows seriousness—often speeds up a deal. I’m ready to buy today if the price works.
Closing the Deal
- Great! I’ll take it at that price. Confirms agreement and moves to purchase. Great! I’ll take it at that price.
- Let’s go with [agreed amount]. Friendly and clear final confirmation. Let’s go with $180.
- Thank you—that’s a fair deal. Shows appreciation and mutual respect. Thank you—that’s a fair deal.
Real-Life Dialogues
Buyer: I really like this camera. Is this the best price you can offer?
Seller: It’s $400, but I can do $375.
Buyer: Would you take $350? I saw a similar one for less, but I’d rather buy from you.
Seller: How about $360?
Buyer: Great! I’ll take it at that price.
Tenant: I love the apartment! Do you have any flexibility on the price?
Landlord: The rent is $1,800.
Tenant: I can offer $1,650. I’m ready to sign today if it works.
Landlord: Let’s go with $1,700.
Tenant: Thank you—that’s a fair deal.
Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Phrase
| Situation | Recommended Expression | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Bargaining at a street market | What’s your lowest price? | Direct, expected, and culturally appropriate in informal settings. |
| Negotiating a service quote | Do you have any flexibility on the price? | Professional, respectful, and opens dialogue without pressure. |
| Asking for a bulk discount | If I buy two, can you give me a discount? | Logical, friendly, and often leads to a “yes.” |
| Accepting a counteroffer | Great! I’ll take it at that price. | Clear, positive, and finalizes the deal smoothly. |
Practice Tip
Role-play a price negotiation with a friend—even if you’re not shopping! Practice saying, “Would you take…?” or “I can offer…” to build confidence.
Why This Matters
- Using these 18 phrases for negotiating a price helps you save money while maintaining respect and rapport.
- It builds real-world communication skills for travel, shopping, renting, or business in English-speaking environments.
- Polite negotiation shows cultural fluency—many English speakers expect some back-and-forth in informal sales!
Now you’re equipped to negotiate with confidence and kindness! Try using one of these 18 phrases for negotiating a price the next time you’re buying something—even if it’s just practice. Happy learning! 😊