How to Ask for Discounts or Sales in English

When traveling, shopping, or living abroad, one of the most practical communication skills you can learn is how to ask for discounts or inquire about sales in English. Whether you are buying souvenirs in a market, shopping in a mall, booking a hotel, or negotiating a long-term rental, knowing the right words and phrases can save you money and help you feel more confident in conversations. This guide will cover useful expressions, cultural tips, and real examples of how to ask for discounts politely in English.

Why Asking for Discounts Is Important

In many cultures, bargaining is a normal part of shopping. While in some English-speaking countries (like the U.S. or the U.K.) bargaining in stores is not common, there are still situations where asking for a discount is completely acceptable:

• At open-air markets, flea markets, or street stalls

• When buying multiple items at once

• When booking hotels, tours, or services directly

• During clearance sales or seasonal promotions

• For long-term rentals or memberships

Knowing the right approach can make the difference between paying full price and getting a special deal.

Key Phrases for Asking About Discounts

Here are some simple and polite ways to ask about discounts:

1. “Is there a discount for this?”
   – A direct but polite way to ask if a lower price is available.

2. “Do you have any sales right now?”
   – Useful in stores, especially during seasonal shopping periods.

3. “Can you give me a better price?”
   – More casual, often used in markets or when negotiating face-to-face.

4. “Do you offer student/senior discounts?”
   – Common in museums, cinemas, and attractions.

5. “Is there a discount if I pay in cash?”
   – In some places, cash payments come with a reduced price.

6. “Could you give me a discount if I buy two (or more)?”
   – Effective for bulk purchases.

Phrases for Seasonal Sales and Promotions

Shops often advertise sales, but you may not know if they apply to what you want to buy. Here’s how to ask:

• “Do you have any promotions today?”

• “When will this item go on sale?”

• “Is this part of the discount section?”

• “Are there any buy-one-get-one offers?”

These phrases work well in malls, clothing shops, or supermarkets.

Polite Expressions to Use Before Asking

Politeness is very important in English-speaking cultures. To soften your question, you can start with:

• “Excuse me, I was wondering…”

• “Could you please tell me…”

• “I’d like to ask if…”

For example: “Excuse me, I was wondering if this item will go on sale soon?” This sounds friendlier and more natural than simply asking, “Discount?”

How to Negotiate a Lower Price

When you are in a market, tourist shop, or dealing directly with a vendor, negotiation is often expected. Here are some steps:

1. Show interest but don’t seem desperate.
   If you look too eager, the seller may not lower the price.

2. Ask the price first.
   Then respond with: “That’s a bit more than I expected. Can you lower it?”

3. Make a counter-offer.
   For example: “Could you do $15 instead of $20?”

4. Use friendly body language.
   Smile, be polite, and thank them even if they say no.

5. Be ready to walk away.
   Sometimes the seller will call you back with a better offer.

Examples in Different Situations

At a Market

• Shopper: “How much is this bag?”

• Vendor: “It’s $25.”

• Shopper: “That’s a little expensive. Can you give me a discount?”

• Vendor: “Okay, $20 for you.”

At a Clothing Store

• Shopper: “Excuse me, is this jacket on sale?”

• Clerk: “Not today, but we’ll have a promotion next week.”

At a Hotel

• Guest: “I’d like to stay for one week. Could you give me a better rate for a long stay?”

• Receptionist: “Yes, we can offer you a 10% discount for more than five nights.”

Booking a Tour

• Traveler: “Do you have any group discounts?”

• Tour Operator: “Yes, if you’re more than four people, you get 15% off.”

Cultural Tips to Remember

1. Know when bargaining is acceptable.
   – In department stores or supermarkets, prices are fixed.
   – In street markets or small shops, bargaining is often fine.

2. Use polite language.
   – English speakers appreciate respect. Say “please” and “thank you.”

3. Smile and keep a friendly tone.
   – Sellers are more likely to give discounts to pleasant customers.

4. Don’t push too hard.
   – If the seller says no, accept it politely.

5. Check official policies.
   – Some places, like student discounts in museums, require an ID card.

Useful Vocabulary

• Discount – a reduction in price

• Promotion – a special offer, usually for a limited time

• Sale – when products are sold at lower prices

• Clearance – a big discount to clear old stock

• Coupon – a ticket or code for a discount

• Loyalty card – a membership card that gives rewards or discounts

Sample Dialogues

Dialogue 1: Asking in a Store

• Shopper: “Excuse me, do you have any sales today?”

• Clerk: “Yes, all shoes are 20% off.”

• Shopper: “Great! Does the discount apply to this pair too?”

• Clerk: “Yes, it does.”

Dialogue 2: Negotiating at a Market

• Traveler: “How much are these souvenirs?”

• Vendor: “$10 each.”

• Traveler: “If I buy three, can you give me a discount?”

• Vendor: “Okay, three for $25.”

Dialogue 3: Hotel Negotiation

• Guest: “I’d like to stay for five nights. Do you offer a weekly rate?”

• Receptionist: “Yes, we can give you a 15% discount for stays longer than four nights.”

Final Tips for Success

• Practice these phrases before you shop.

• Be confident but polite.

• Remember: sometimes asking politely is enough to receive a discount, even if it wasn’t advertised.

• Always thank the seller, even if you don’t buy.

Asking for discounts or sales in English is not only about saving money but also about cultural exchange. By learning these expressions, you can interact more confidently with English speakers around the world, making your shopping and travel experiences smoother and more enjoyable.

FAQ:How to Ask for Discounts or Sales in English

What does “discount” mean, and how is it different from a “sale” or “promotion”?

A discount is a reduction in the original price. A sale is a period when many items are discounted, often for a season or event (e.g., “Black Friday sale”). A promotion is a special offer that may include a discount, free gift, or bundle (e.g., “buy 2, get 1 free”). You might also see markdown (a permanent price reduction), clearance (final discounts to clear stock), and deal (any attractive offer). Understanding these terms helps you ask the right question at the right time.

Is it polite to ask for a discount in English-speaking countries?

Yes—if you ask politely and in the right context. In big chain stores and supermarkets, prices are usually fixed, so bargaining is uncommon. However, it is perfectly fine to ask about ongoing sales, student/senior discounts, loyalty rewards, or price matching. In markets, independent shops, tour kiosks, and when booking hotels directly, gentle negotiation is more acceptable. Always use softeners like “Could” or “Would,” smile, and be ready to accept a “no” graciously.

What are polite phrases to ask for a discount or sale?

Use soft, respectful language. Here are natural starters:

• “Excuse me, do you have any discounts or promotions today?”
• “Would it be possible to get a better price on this?”
• “Is there a student/senior/military discount available?”
• “If I buy two, could you offer a discount?”
• “Do you price match with other stores?”
• “Is there a discount for paying in cash?” (context-dependent)

These phrases sound polite and professional while clearly expressing your request.

When are discounts most likely, and how can I ask about timing?

Discounts are common during seasonal changes, holidays, and clearance periods. To ask about timing, try:

• “When does this item usually go on sale?”
• “Are there any upcoming promotions I should watch for?”
• “Do you expect a markdown on this model soon?”

Staff may not always know exact dates, but they can hint at common sale windows or advise you to join the store’s mailing list for alerts.

What discounts can I ask for at museums, attractions, or transit?

Many attractions offer student, senior, child, or resident rates. Ask directly and show proof if required:

• “Do you offer a student discount? Here is my ID.”
• “Is there a senior rate for this ticket?”
• “Do local residents get a discount?”

Always carry identification (student card, passport with birth date, residency ID). Policies vary, so be prepared for different requirements.

How do I use coupons, promo codes, and loyalty programs effectively?

Before paying, ask about stackable savings:

• “Can I apply this coupon or promo code to the sale price?”
• “Is there a loyalty program that provides an immediate discount?”
• “Do you have a newsletter sign-up discount?”

Some stores allow stacking (combining offers), while others don’t. Read the fine print and confirm with staff. Online, try entering a promo code at checkout or ask live chat: “Are there any active codes I can use today?”

What is price matching, and how do I ask for it?

Price matching is when a store matches a lower price from a competitor. Ask:

• “I noticed a lower price at [Store/Website]. Do you price match?”
• “Could you match this price if I buy here today?”

Bring proof (screenshot, ad link) and check conditions (same model, stock availability, authorized seller). Stay polite; if they can’t match, you can ask if they can offer a small discount or free accessory instead.

How can I negotiate respectfully in markets or small shops?

Start by showing interest but not urgency. Steps:

1. Ask the price: “How much is this?”
2. Respond softly: “That’s a bit more than I expected. Could you do a better price?”
3. Make a reasonable counter-offer: “Would $15 be possible?”
4. Bundle: “If I take two, could you give me a discount?”
5. Be ready to walk away politely if it’s too high.

Maintain friendly body language; a smile often leads to a friendlier price.

How should I ask for a discount on hotels, tours, or long-term services?

Service pricing is often flexible, especially for longer commitments or direct bookings. Use clear value-based language:

• “I’m booking seven nights. Do you offer a weekly rate or long-stay discount?”
• “We’re a group of five. Is there a group rate?”
• “If I pay in full today, could you offer a better price?”

Demonstrate commitment (dates, group size, payment method). If the price is fixed, ask about perks (free breakfast, late checkout, room upgrade, or airport pickup).

What can I say if the answer is “no” but I still want value?

Accept the refusal gracefully, then pivot to alternatives:

• “No problem—are there any bonuses, like free accessories or extended warranty?”
• “Could you include free shipping?”
• “Is there a loyalty sign-up discount I can use today?”

Remaining courteous preserves goodwill and sometimes unlocks unexpected benefits.

Can I ask about future discounts without sounding pushy?

Yes. Use curious, non-demanding language:

• “I’m interested but on a budget. Do prices usually drop at the end of the season?”
• “Is this model likely to be marked down soon?”
• “Would you recommend waiting for an upcoming sale?”

This shows respect for store policy while signaling that a discount could secure your purchase.

What cultural and tone tips help me sound natural in English?

Use softeners (could, would, might), gratitude (please, thank you), and reasonableness. Avoid aggressive haggling in fixed-price settings. Keep your voice calm, smile, and don’t interrupt. Short, clear requests sound confident but polite: “Could you do any better on the price?” followed by “Thanks for checking.”

Could you share short sample scripts for common situations?

In a store:
“Excuse me, do you have any promotions today? If I get both the shirt and jacket, could you offer a discount?”

Hotel email/chat:
“Hello, I’m planning a seven-night stay from March 5–12. Do you offer a weekly rate or any long-stay discounts? I can book directly and pay in full. Thank you!”

Tour desk:
“We’re four adults booking two activities. Is there a group rate or package discount if we book both today?”

What mistakes should I avoid when asking for discounts?

• Being too aggressive in fixed-price stores.
• Making false claims about competitor prices.
• Waiting until after payment to ask about coupons or codes.
• Ignoring eligibility rules for student/senior discounts.
• Forgetting to say thank you—even when the answer is no.

Staying honest and courteous protects your credibility and increases your chances.

What vocabulary should I know to talk about discounts clearly?

Useful terms include: discount (price reduction), sale (discount period), promotion (special offer), markdown (reduced price), clearance (final sale), coupon/promo code (savings code), loyalty program (member rewards), bundle (multiple items sold together), and BOGO (“buy one, get one”). Using the right word helps staff understand your request quickly.

Quick mini-dialogues to practice

Market
Buyer: “How much is this?”
Seller: “$25.”
Buyer: “Could you do any better on the price? How about $20?”
Seller: “Okay, $22.”

Electronics store
Customer: “I see a lower price online. Do you price match?”
Clerk: “Yes, with approved retailers.”
Customer: “Great—could you match this?”

Museum
Visitor: “Do you offer a student discount? Here’s my ID.”
Staff: “Yes, 20% off.”

Practice aloud so these phrases feel natural when you need them.

Travel English Guide for Beginners