English for Shopping: How to Ask Questions and Understand Prices

Let’s learn English for shopping.

Shopping is something we all do — for food, clothes, gifts, or just for fun. When shopping in an English-speaking area, it’s helpful to know how to ask the right questions.

I will teach you simple English words and phrases to use while shopping. You’ll learn how to ask about prices, products, discounts, and payment methods.

How to Ask About Prices

When you see something you like, you’ll want to know the price. Here are some easy ways to ask:

• “How much is this?”
  → Very common and simple question.

• “What’s the price of this?”
  → A little more formal.

• “How much does this cost?”
  → Another way to ask.

• “Is this on sale?”
  → Use this if you want to know if there’s a discount.

• “Can you give me a better price?”
  → Ask this if you want to bargain (usually in markets, not big shops).

• “How much is it after discount?”
  → Ask this if there is a sale and you want to know the final price.

Words Related to Prices

Here are some common words you may see on price tags or signs:

• Retail Price – The normal price of an item.

• Discounted Price – A lower price than usual.

• On Sale – The item is cheaper for a short time.

• Special Offer – A deal like “Buy 1, Get 1 Free.”

• Tax Included / Excluded – Some prices include tax, some don’t.

• Final Price – The total price after tax and discounts.

Common Signs You’ll See While Shopping

• “50% Off” – You pay half the price.

• “Buy One, Get One Free” – Buy one item and get another free.

• “Clearance” – Big discounts on old stock.

• “Limited Time Offer” – The deal is only for a short time.

• “Price Match Guarantee” – The store will match a lower price from another shop.

How to Ask About Products

If you need help finding or understanding a product, you can ask:

• “Can you help me find…?”
  Example: “Can you help me find a blue shirt?”

• “Is this available in other colors/sizes?”

• “Do you have this in stock?”
  → Ask this to know if the item is available.

• “How does this work?”
  → Ask this if you don’t know how to use a product.

• “Can I try this on?”
  → In clothes shops, ask this before using the trial room.

• “Is there a warranty with this?”
  → Ask this for electronics and expensive items.

How to Ask About Payment

When you are ready to pay, these questions can help:

• “Do you accept credit cards?”

• “Can I pay by debit card?”

• “Do you accept mobile payments?”
  → Like Google Pay or Apple Pay.

• “What are your return policies?”
  → Ask this if you want to return or exchange an item later.

• “Can I pay in installments?”
  → Useful for buying costly items.

How to Ask for Help in a Store

Sometimes you need help in a shop. Here are simple questions to ask:

• “Excuse me, where is the electronics section?”

• “I’m looking for a gift. Can you recommend something?”

• “Do you have a loyalty program?”
  → Some shops give points or discounts to repeat buyers.

• “Can I get a bag for this?”

• “Where is the checkout?”
  → Ask this when you want to pay.

Cultural Differences in Shopping

Shopping rules are different in different countries. Here are some things to remember:

• Tipping
  → In the U.S., tipping is common. In Japan, people don’t tip.

• Sales Tax
  → In the U.S., tax is added at checkout. In Europe and Australia, tax is usually included in the price.

• Bargaining (Haggling)
  → You can bargain in markets, but not in big shops.

Real Experiences from English-Speaking Countries

U.S. vs. U.K. Haggling
→ In the U.S., you can haggle in small markets. In the U.K., haggling is not common, but allowed in places like Camden Market.

Big Discounts in the U.S.
→ Shops like Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s have end-of-season sales. You can save a lot if you shop at the right time.

Clear Prices in Australia
→ In Australia, most shops show prices with tax included. So, you know exactly how much to pay.

Conclusion

Shopping is not just buying things — it’s also a way to talk, learn, and explore. If you know the right words and questions in English, shopping becomes easier and more fun.

Use the tips in this post to ask about prices, get help, and enjoy your shopping. Don’t be shy — ask your questions and get the best deals!

Read more:

• Sales English Conversations (Phrases and Sample Dialogue)
• English Conversations at a Pharmacy
• English Dialogue: Explaining Symptoms to a Doctor
• English Dialogue: Asking for a Salary Raise
• English Conversation About Work-from-Home Challenges
• English Conversations at a Train Ticket Counter