这个多少钱？

Using it is as simple as pointing your finger. You see a cool silk scarf? Point and say 这个多少钱？. You see a mysterious street snack that smells like heaven? Point and ask. You can even use it while holding an item up to a shopkeeper. If you want to be slightly more specific, you can replace 这个 (this one) with 那个 (that one). Just keep your tone steady and watch the seller's calculator for the answer. It is the ultimate low-stress interaction.

You will use this constantly. Use it at the wet market while picking out dragon fruit. Use it at a trendy mall in Shanghai for those sneakers you like. It works perfectly at restaurants without prices on the menu. It is even useful in taxi cabs if you want to check the fare before starting. Basically, if there is a price tag involved, this phrase is your golden ticket.

Don't use this for things that aren't for sale. Asking a new friend 这个多少钱？ about their wedding ring might feel a bit intrusive. Also, avoid using it for services that have complex pricing, like a long-term gym membership. In those cases, you might need a more nuanced conversation. And definitely don't use it if the price is already clearly displayed in giant neon numbers—you'll just look a bit distracted!

In China, prices aren't always set in stone. This phrase is often the 'opening bell' for a negotiation. In local markets, asking the price is just the first step in a rhythmic dance of bargaining. However, in modern malls and chain stores, the price is the price. Interestingly, the concept of 'face' plays a role here too. Asking the price directly shows you are a serious buyer, not just a window shopper.

You can shorten it to 多少钱？ (How much money?) if you are already holding the item. If you want to sound a bit more polite, add 请问 (May I ask) at the beginning: 请问这个多少钱？. In Southern China or Taiwan, you might hear people say 这个怎么卖？ which literally means 'How is this sold?'. It’s like the cool, local version of the same question.