Signification
Bargaining for a lower cost
Contexte culturel
Bargaining is expected. If you don't ask for a lower price, the shopkeeper might think you are either very rich or not very smart. It's a social game. Similar to Pakistan, the 'Bazaar' culture in Delhi or Lucknow thrives on negotiation. Using 'Bhaiya' (Brother) before the phrase helps build rapport. In gold souks or carpet shops, Urdu is often a lingua franca. Bargaining is intense and expected here. In 'Little Pakistans' like Jackson Heights (NY) or Southall (London), you can sometimes bargain in independent ethnic grocery stores, but it's less common than in Asia.
The 'Walk Away' Technique
If the shopkeeper refuses to 'kam karein', start walking away slowly. Often, they will call you back with a lower price.
Fixed Price Shops
Look for signs that say 'Pukka Rate' or 'Fixed Price'. Do not try to bargain there; it's considered annoying.
Signification
Bargaining for a lower cost
The 'Walk Away' Technique
If the shopkeeper refuses to 'kam karein', start walking away slowly. Often, they will call you back with a lower price.
Fixed Price Shops
Look for signs that say 'Pukka Rate' or 'Fixed Price'. Do not try to bargain there; it's considered annoying.
Smile and Be Kind
Bargaining is a social interaction. If you are rude, the seller will not reduce the price. A smile goes a long way.
Use 'Bhai'
Addressing the seller as 'Bhai' (Brother) or 'Uncle' creates a familial bond that makes them more likely to give you a discount.
Teste-toi
Fill in the missing word to ask for a lower price.
بھائی، یہ بہت مہنگا ہے، قیمت ___ کریں۔
'Kam' is the correct word for 'less' in the context of price.
Which of these is the most polite way to bargain?
Select the best option:
The 'karein' ending is the polite/plural form, making it the most respectful choice.
Complete the dialogue between a passenger and a rickshaw driver.
Driver: 200 rupees. Passenger: _________
This follows the logic of negotiating a fare.
In which situation should you NOT use 'Qeemat kam karein'?
Match the situation to the rule.
Branded stores in malls have fixed prices and bargaining is not allowed.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Where to use 'Qeemat kam karein'
Yes (Bargain)
- • Local Bazaar
- • Rickshaws
- • Street Food
- • Antique Shops
No (Fixed)
- • Shopping Malls
- • Pharmacy
- • Cinema
- • Branded Outlets
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesبھائی، یہ بہت مہنگا ہے، قیمت ___ کریں۔
'Kam' is the correct word for 'less' in the context of price.
Select the best option:
The 'karein' ending is the polite/plural form, making it the most respectful choice.
Driver: 200 rupees. Passenger: _________
This follows the logic of negotiating a fare.
Match the situation to the rule.
Branded stores in malls have fixed prices and bargaining is not allowed.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsNo, in most markets it is expected. However, doing it in a high-end mall is considered out of place.
'Kam karein' is direct (reduce it). 'Munaasib karein' is softer (make it fair).
No, restaurant prices are fixed. You can only use it in raw food markets (Sabzi Mandi).
Usually, start by asking for 30-50% off, but it depends on the item and the market.
It is feminine (Meri qeemat), but in the phrase 'Qeemat kam karein', the verb doesn't change based on its gender.
This means 'It's already low.' You can respond by saying 'Nahi bhai, thora aur kam karein.'
Yes, though they might do it less in modern shops, it's still a vital skill in local markets.
No! For salary, use 'Salary par baat karein' or 'Package munaasib karein'. 'Qeemat' is for objects.
Yes, 'Kuch hath halka rakhein' (Keep your hand light) is a common slang way to ask for a discount.
Yes, Urdu and Hindi are very similar in this context. 'Qeemat kam kijiye' is the Hindi equivalent.
Expressions liées
مناسب کریں
similarMake it appropriate/fair.
رعایت کریں
synonymGive a concession.
فائنل پرائس
contrastFinal price.
لوٹ مار
specialized formPlunder/Overcharging.
