Meaning
To check the cost of similar products from different sellers.
Cultural Background
Germans are world champions at saving. Comparing prices is a national hobby. Websites like Check24 are household names. Similar to Germany, but there is a strong focus on 'Regionalität'. People compare prices but often choose the local product even if it's slightly more expensive. Prices are generally higher. Comparing prices often involves looking across the border to Germany or France ('Einkaufstourismus'). The 'Influencer' culture in Germany often revolves around 'Hauls' and 'Spar-Tipps' (saving tips), where comparing prices is a key content pillar.
Use Apps
Mentioning apps like 'Idealo' or 'Check24' makes you sound very culturally aware in Germany.
Don't Haggle
Comparing prices is encouraged, but haggling (feilschen) in a German supermarket is a big no-no.
Meaning
To check the cost of similar products from different sellers.
Use Apps
Mentioning apps like 'Idealo' or 'Check24' makes you sound very culturally aware in Germany.
Don't Haggle
Comparing prices is encouraged, but haggling (feilschen) in a German supermarket is a big no-no.
The 'Sparfuchs'
A person who loves comparing prices is often called a 'Sparfuchs' (saving fox). It's usually a compliment!
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of 'vergleichen'.
Ich ___ jeden Tag {die|f} Preise im Internet.
The subject is 'Ich', so the verb ending must be '-e'.
Which sentence is correct?
Buying a new TV:
'Vergleichen' is the standard term for shopping around.
Match the German phrase with its English meaning.
Shopping terms
These are essential shopping vocabulary words.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Warum gehst du zu Lidl? B: Weil ich ___ ___ ___.
In a subordinate clause starting with 'weil', the verb goes to the end.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Billig vs. Günstig
Practice Bank
4 exercisesIch ___ jeden Tag {die|f} Preise im Internet.
The subject is 'Ich', so the verb ending must be '-e'.
Buying a new TV:
'Vergleichen' is the standard term for shopping around.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are essential shopping vocabulary words.
A: Warum gehst du zu Lidl? B: Weil ich ___ ___ ___.
In a subordinate clause starting with 'weil', the verb goes to the end.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend.
No, 'vergleichen' can be used for people, but 'Preise vergleichen' is strictly for money.
'Billig' can mean low quality. 'Günstig' means a good price for good quality. Use 'günstig' when you find a good deal after comparing.
Usually yes. 'Ich vergleiche Preise' is okay, but 'Ich vergleiche die Preise' sounds more natural.
It is '{das|n} Vergleichsportal' or '{der|m} Preisvergleich'.
Always 'vergleichen mit' + Dative.
No, that is not a German phrase. Use 'Preise vergleichen'.
Not at all. Even wealthy Germans take pride in finding a good deal.
There isn't a direct opposite, but 'blind kaufen' (to buy blindly) is the concept.
Use 'habe... verglichen'. Example: 'Ich habe die Preise verglichen.'
Related Phrases
Geld sparen
similarTo save money
Ein Schnäppchen machen
builds onTo get a bargain
Das Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnis
specialized formValue for money
Feilschen
contrastTo haggle
