You’re learning how to shop confidently in the United States, and one of the first skills you need is asking about prices clearly and politely. Whether you’re visiting a mall, shopping online, or exploring a flea market, knowing the right phrases will save you time, confusion, and awkward moments. This guide teaches you common American English shopping phrases, gives Ukrainian translations, and provides realistic sample dialogues with cultural notes so you can sound natural and polite in real-life situations.
Why price phrases matter in daily shopping
When you ask about price, you’re doing more than checking numbers — you’re navigating cultural expectations. In the U.S., prices on tags sometimes exclude sales tax, sizing is different from Ukraine, and bargaining is rare in chain stores. Using polite phrases will get you better service and clearer answers. This section explains why small language choices matter and how they affect your shopping experience.
Essential price questions and translations
Start with a few core questions that work in almost any store. You’ll find the English phrase, a Ukrainian translation, short pronunciation tips, and a quick note on when to use each one.
“How much is this?” — “Скільки це коштує?”
This is the most direct and common question. Use it when you see a product on a shelf or rack and want the price.
“Do you have it in stock?” — “Ви маєте це в наявності?”
Ask this when the shelf looks empty or when you’re checking availability of a specific color, size, or model.
“What sizes do you have?” — “Які у вас є розміри?”
Useful in clothing or shoes. Expect size systems to differ from Ukraine — see the sizing section below.
“What are your payment options?” — “Які у вас варіанти оплати?”
Ask this before you plan to pay. Many stores accept cards and contactless payments, but smaller shops may be cash-only.
“Do you have a cheaper option?” — “Чи є у вас дешевший варіант?”
Use this politely when you want a similar product at a lower price point. Large stores won’t “bargain” but will happily show you different price levels.
“Is tax included?” — “У цю ціну входить податок?”
A very important question because most U.S. stores add sales tax at checkout. Ask to know the final cost.
“Is this on sale?” — “Це зі знижкою?”
Good to confirm whether the tag is already discounted or if there is a different sale price online or at the register.
“Can I use a coupon?” — “Чи можу я скористатися купоном?”
Coupons are common in the U.S. and often change the final price.
Every phrase above is short and polite. Practice saying them out loud so you feel comfortable using them in a noisy store.
Polite ways to start the conversation
Starting politely will always get you a better response. Americans appreciate a friendly approach, especially in customer service situations. Here are natural ways to begin your question:
“Excuse me, could you tell me how much this is?” — “Вибачте, не могли б ви сказати, скільки це коштує?”
Adding “Excuse me” or “Could you” makes you sound polite and respectful.
“Hi — do you happen to have this in stock?” — “Привіт — чи випадково це є в наявності?”
This is casual and friendly. It’s great in smaller shops or when staff are busy.
“Hello, I’m wondering if this is on sale?” — “Добрий день, цікавить чи це зі знижкою?”
This softens the question and shows you’re curious rather than demanding.
Using “please” and “thank you” (будь ласка, дякую) is always appreciated and expected in American shops. Even small phrases like “Thanks so much” can make staff more helpful.
In-store shopping: clothing and sizes
Shopping for clothes means dealing with sizes, fit, and sometimes confusion between European and American sizing. You’ll want to ask not just for sizes, but also for fitting-room availability and size conversion help.
“What sizes do you have?” — “Які у вас є розміри?”
If a salesperson looks puzzled, you can add: “I usually wear EU size 38. What would that be here?” — “Зазвичай я ношу європейський розмір 38. Який це тут розмір?” A helpful clerk will show you the size label, and many stores have conversion charts.
“Can I try this on?” — “Чи можу я це приміряти?”
When you ask to use the fitting room, staff will tell you where it is and whether there is a wait.
“Do you have this in a medium/size 8?” — “У вас є це в розмірі M/8?”
Be ready to show the tag or the size you usually wear. American women’s sizes (2, 4, 6, 8, etc.) and men’s sizes (S, M, L) can differ from EU sizes, so asking for help is normal.
Cultural note: American shoppers expect to try items on before buying, and clerks are used to multiple returns. If you’re unsure about size conversions, ask for a sizing chart or for help measuring the item.
Sample dialogue — clothing store (English + Ukrainian)
You: “Excuse me, how much is this dress?”
Ви: “Вибачте, скільки коштує ця сукня?”
Clerk: “It’s $59.99. What size are you looking for?”
Продавець: “Вона коштує 59,99 $. Який розмір вам потрібен?”
You: “Do you have it in size medium? I usually wear EU 38.”
Ви: “У вас є у розмірі M? Зазвичай я ношу євророзмір 38.”
Clerk: “Yes, we have a medium. The price on the tag doesn’t include tax.”
Продавець: “Так, у нас є M. На ціннику не вказано податок.”
Cultural note: The clerk told you the price without tax, which is common. Ask about the total at the register if you need the exact final amount.
In-store shopping: shoes and measurements
Shoe sizing in the U.S. uses a different system, and children’s sizes are another variation. You’ll use similar questions but add specifics for feet measurements.
“What sizes do you have in this model?” — “Які у вас є розміри у цій моделі?”
If you know your US shoe size, say it. If not, ask the clerk to measure your foot: “Could you measure my foot, please?” — “Не могли б ви виміряти мою стопу, будь ласка?”
“Do you have wide or narrow sizes?” — “У вас є широкий чи вузький розмір?”
Feet width is important; American shoe brands often come in regular (D), wide (W), and narrow (N) widths.
“Can I walk around in these for a minute?” — “Чи можу я трохи походити в них?”
Salespeople expect you to test shoes for comfort by walking around.
Cultural note: American shoe stores often offer in-store returns or exchanges within a certain period. Ask the clerk about the return policy if you’re unsure.
Sample dialogue — shoe store (English + Ukrainian)
You: “Hi, how much are these sneakers?”
Ви: “Добрий день, скільки коштують ці кросівки?”
Clerk: “They’re $89.99. What size do you need?”
Продавець: “Вони коштують 89,99 $. Який вам потрібен розмір?”
You: “I’m not sure about US sizes. Can you measure my foot?”
Ви: “Я не впевнена щодо американських розмірів. Чи можете ви виміряти мою стопу?”
Clerk: “Sure — you’re a size 7.5 and these are medium width.”
Продавець: “Звісно — у вас розмір 7,5 і це середня ширина.”
Cultural note: Shoe sizes can vary by brand; clerks often recommend trying multiple sizes for fit.
Asking about stock and availability
Sometimes an item you want is out of sight or has sold out. Knowing how to ask about availability will help you find the same item in another color, store, or online.
“Do you have it in stock?” — “Ви маєте це в наявності?”
This direct question works in any store. If the clerk says no, ask for alternatives.
“Can you check the back for me?” — “Чи не могли б ви перевірити на складі?”
Clerks will often check stock rooms for hidden items.
“Is this available at another location?” — “Чи є це в наявності в іншому магазині?”
Many chains can transfer items from one location to another or hold them for pickup.
“Can I order it online and pick it up?” — “Чи можу я замовити це онлайн і забрати в магазині?”
Ask this if the item is out of stock in-store but available online.
Cultural note: Large retailers usually offer inventory checks online. In small boutiques, staff will often take your contact information to call you when the item is restocked.
Sample dialogue — availability (English + Ukrainian)
You: “Do you have this jacket in red?”
Ви: “У вас є ця куртка в червоному кольорі?”
Clerk: “Not on the floor, but I’ll check the back.”
Продавець: “На вітрині немає, але я перевірю в запасниках.”
Clerk: “We don’t have red right now, but we can order it for you.”
Продавець: “Червоного зараз немає, але ми можемо замовити для вас.”
You: “Can you hold it for pickup when it arrives?”
Ви: “Чи можете ви тримати його для самовивозу, коли прибуде?”
Cultural note: Asking the store to hold an item is common and usually free.
Online shopping: messages and chat phrases
Online shopping often involves messaging sellers or using live chat. You’ll need slightly different phrases, because tone has to be clear and direct in text.
“Is this item still available?” — “Цей товар ще доступний?”
Use this on marketplace listings or small-shop websites.
“What is the shipping cost to [city/country]?” — “Яка вартість доставки до [місто/країна]?”
Always ask shipping costs upfront to avoid surprises.
“Do you offer returns or refunds?” — “Чи приймаєте ви повернення або відшкодування?”
Online returns can be more complicated; clarify before you buy.
“Can I pick this up in-store?” — “Чи можу я забрати це в магазині?”
If the retailer has physical locations, pickup can save time and shipping fees.
Cultural note: Many US websites display shipping, tax, and estimated delivery during checkout. If you’re communicating with a seller on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Etsy, be clear about location and payment methods.
Sample dialogue — online seller message (English + Ukrainian)
You (message): “Hello — is this lamp still available? How much is shipping to Kyiv?”
Ви (повідомлення): “Привіт — ця лампа ще доступна? Яка вартість доставки до Києва?”
Seller: “Yes, it’s available. Shipping to Kyiv is $45 and delivery takes about 10–14 business days.”
Продавець: “Так, доступна. Доставка до Києва 45 $ і займає близько 10–14 робочих днів.”
You: “Thank you. Do you accept PayPal?”
Ви: “Дякую. Ви приймаєте PayPal?”
Seller: “Yes, PayPal is fine. I’ll send an invoice.”
Продавець: “Так, PayPal підходить. Я надішлю рахунок.”
Cultural note: Online safety: avoid sending payments outside secure systems. Use trusted payment platforms that offer buyer protection.
Payment options: what to ask and expect
Knowing how to ask about payment keeps the checkout smooth. In the U.S., most stores accept cards and contactless payments, but smaller vendors may prefer cash or mobile pay.
“What are your payment options?” — “Які у вас варіанти оплати?”
Ask this before you reach the register if you think cash or a specific card is necessary.
“Do you accept credit/debit cards?” — “Ви приймаєте кредитні/дебетові картки?”
This is a simple, necessary question.
“Do you take Apple Pay/Google Pay?” — “Ви приймаєте Apple Pay/Google Pay?”
Contactless payments are common and often easier when you’re carrying luggage or in a hurry.
“Can I pay with a gift card?” — “Чи можу я розрахуватися подарунковою карткою?”
Many stores have store-specific gift cards that may be used online or in-store.
“Is there an extra fee for card payments?” — “Чи є додаткова плата за оплату карткою?”
Rare in retail, but sometimes present for small independent sellers or at farmers’ markets.
Cultural note: Tipping is not expected when buying goods in a store, though some small independent shops or food counters may suggest tipping. Ask about fees if you’re unsure.
Sample dialogue — payment (English + Ukrainian)
You: “What are your payment options?”
Ви: “Які у вас варіанти оплати?”
Cashier: “We accept Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and cash.”
Касир: “Ми приймаємо Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay та готівку.”
You: “Great. Can I use contactless?”
Ви: “Чудово. Чи можу я скористатися безконтактною оплатою?”
Cashier: “Yes, just tap your phone or card when you’re ready.”
Касир: “Так, просто прикладіть телефон або картку, коли будете готові.”
Cultural note: If a card is declined, stay calm and try another payment method — clerks are used to this happening.
Asking for cheaper options and discounts
In most American chain stores, prices are fixed, but staff can often point you to lower-priced alternatives, clearance items, or current sales. In smaller shops and markets, you might be able to negotiate.
“Do you have a cheaper option?” — “Чи є у вас дешевший варіант?”
This is polite and direct. Staff will usually show alternative models or items.
“Is there a price adjustment if this goes on sale?” — “Чи буде корекція ціни, якщо це потрапить у розпродаж?”
Some stores will offer a price adjustment if an item you recently bought goes on sale within a certain period.
“Can you give me a discount?” — “Чи можете ви зробити знижку?”
Large chains rarely do this, but small businesses might offer a small discount, especially if you’re buying multiple items.
“Do you accept coupons or promo codes?” — “Чи приймаєте ви купони або промокоди?”
Online and in-store coupons are very common.
Cultural note: Bargaining is common in flea markets, at garage sales, or with independent sellers, but not in big department stores. When bargaining, be friendly, start with a reasonable offer, and expect a polite refusal sometimes.
Sample dialogue — asking for a cheaper option (English + Ukrainian)
You: “Do you have a cheaper option? I’m on a budget.”
Ви: “У вас є дешевший варіант? Я маю обмежений бюджет.”
Salesperson: “We have a similar model on the clearance rack for $29.99.”
Продавець: “У нас є подібна модель на розпродажі за 29,99 $.”
You: “Perfect. Is that final price or is tax added?”
Ви: “Чудово. Це кінцева ціна чи додається податок?”
Salesperson: “Tax will be added at checkout.”
Продавець: “Податок буде додано при оплаті.”
Cultural note: If you ask for a discount and get refused, stay polite — a friendly attitude goes a long way.
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Sales tax and final price — very important
In the U.S., retail prices often don’t include sales tax. The tax rate depends on the state and sometimes the city, so the final price at checkout can be higher than the price on the tag.
“Is tax included in the price?” — “У цю ціну входить податок?”
Asking this avoids surprises at checkout, especially if you are watching your budget.
“What will my total be after tax?” — “Яка буде загальна сума з урахуванням податку?”
This gets you an exact number to pay or to compare with your budget.
“Do you charge sales tax for online purchases?” — “Чи нараховується податок з продажу для онлайн-покупок?”
Online purchases may be taxed depending on state laws.
Cultural note: Some states have no sales tax (e.g., Oregon, Delaware), and some luxury items or groceries may be taxed differently. Always confirm if you need the final price for budgeting.
Sample dialogue — sales tax (English + Ukrainian)
You: “How much is this sweater? Is tax included?”
Ви: “Скільки коштує цей светр? Податок включено?”
Clerk: “It’s $49.99, tax not included. With tax it comes to $53.24.”
Продавець: “Вона коштує 49,99 $, податок не включено. З податком буде 53,24 $.”
You: “Thanks — I’ll take it.”
Ви: “Дякую — я беру.”
Cultural note: If you need an exact amount for currency exchange, ask for the final total including tax and any fees.
Thrift stores, flea markets, and bargaining
If you like bargains and secondhand shopping, thrift stores and flea markets are great. In these settings, you can often negotiate, but you should still be polite and realistic.
“How much are you asking for this?” — “Скільки ви просите за це?”
Sellers sometimes post a price but are open to offers.
“Would you take $20 for it?” — “Чи взяли б ви за це 20 $?”
Make a clear, reasonable offer. Expect a counteroffer.
“Is that your best price?” — “Це ваша найкраща ціна?”
This invites the seller to lower the price if possible.
“I like it, but my budget is $15 — can we negotiate?” — “Мені це подобається, але мій бюджет 15 $ — чи можемо домовитись?”
Be friendly; bargaining is a social interaction and often includes small talk.
Cultural note: Bargaining is expected at markets and flea sales, but personal safety and cultural respect matter — avoid aggressive haggling.
Sample dialogue — flea market bargaining (English + Ukrainian)
You: “How much for this vintage lamp?”
Ви: “Скільки за цю вінтажну лампу?”
Seller: “$60.”
Продавець: “60 $.”
You: “Would you take $40?”
Ви: “Чи взяли б ви 40 $?”
Seller: “Hmm, how about $50?”
Продавець: “Гм, як щодо 50 $?”
You: “Sold. Thank you!”
Ви: “Погоджуюсь. Дякую!”
Cultural note: Smile and say “thank you” — friendly bargaining often ends with mutual satisfaction.
Asking about warranties, returns, and price guarantees
When buying electronics, appliances, or higher-priced items, you’ll want to know about warranties and return policies.
“What is your return policy?” — “Яка у вас політика повернення?”
Stores vary: some offer 30 days, some 90, and some have restocking fees. Always check.
“Does this have a warranty?” — “Це має гарантію?”
Ask who provides the warranty — the manufacturer or the store — and what it covers.
“If the price drops, can I get a price adjustment?” — “Якщо ціна впаде, чи можуть змінити ціну для мене?”
Certain stores offer price adjustments within a short window after purchase.
“Can I return this if it doesn’t work?” — “Чи можу я повернути це, якщо воно не працює?”
Clarify whether return shipping is free for online orders.
Cultural note: Keep your receipt and the original packaging when buying electronics. This makes returns and warranty claims much easier.
Sample dialogue — warranty/returns (English + Ukrainian)
You: “What’s your return policy for this blender?”
Ви: “Яка у вас політика повернення на цей блендер?”
Clerk: “You can return it within 30 days with a receipt. Manufacturer warranty lasts one year.”
Продавець: “Ви можете повернути протягом 30 днів за наявності чека. Гарантія виробника на рік.”
You: “Great. Is there a restocking fee?”
Ви: “Чудово. Чи є плата за повернення?”
Clerk: “No, as long as it’s in original condition.”
Продавець: “Ні, доки він у первісному стані.”
Cultural note: For electronics bought online, keep email order confirmations — they often contain the return policy and serial numbers.
Practical tips for clear communication
Small habits help you communicate clearly and avoid misunderstandings.
Use short, simple sentences. This reduces confusion in noisy places.
Speak clearly and slowly if the clerk seems to have trouble understanding. Most people appreciate it.
Show the item or the tag when asking questions. Pointing and showing avoids errors.
If you have a translation app, use it discretely; many store staff are patient and helpful.
Ask follow-up questions: “So the final price will be $X, right?” — “Отже підсумкова ціна буде X, вірно?”
This confirms the total amount so you’re not surprised at the register.
Cultural note: Americans are generally direct but polite. Short small talk like “How are you today?” is common, but don’t feel pressured to engage in long conversations if you’re focused on shopping.
Practice dialogues: three real-life scenarios
Here are three longer dialogues you can study and practice. Each includes a short cultural note so you understand the context and expectations.
Scenario 1 — Grocery store, price per unit (English + Ukrainian)
You: “Excuse me, how much is the apples per pound?”
Ви: “Вибачте, скільки коштують яблука за фунт?”
Clerk: “They’re $1.29 per pound. The price per kilogram would be about $2.84 if you need metric.”
Продавець: “Вони по 1,29 $ за фунт. Ціна за кілограм буде приблизно 2,84 $, якщо вам потрібна метрична система.”
You: “Thanks — I’ll take two pounds.”
Ви: “Дякую — я візьму два фунти.”
Cultural note: Grocery stores often show both unit prices and per-pound prices, but the per-pound rate is useful for comparing.
Scenario 2 — Electronics store, warranty and taxes (English + Ukrainian)
You: “Hi, how much is this laptop, and does the price include tax?”
Ви: “Привіт, скільки коштує цей ноутбук, і чи включає ціна податок?”
Salesperson: “It’s $799.99, tax not included. We also offer a two-year protection plan for $99.”
Продавець: “Вона коштує 799,99 $, податок не включено. Ми також пропонуємо дворічний план захисту за 99 $.”
You: “Is the protection plan refundable?”
Ви: “План захисту повертається?”
Salesperson: “Yes, within 30 days if unopened.”
Продавець: “Так, протягом 30 днів, якщо не розпакований.”
Cultural note: Electronics often have extended warranties sold at checkout; decide whether the extra cost is worth it.
Scenario 3 — Flea market bargaining (English + Ukrainian)
You: “How much is this wooden bowl?”
Ви: “Скільки коштує ця дерев’яна миска?”
Seller: “I’m asking $30.”
Продавець: “Я прошу 30 $.”
You: “Would you take $20?”
Ви: “Чи взяли б ви 20 $?”
Seller: “Okay, $25 and it’s yours.”
Продавець: “Добре, 25 $ і вона ваша.”
You: “Great — thank you so much!”
Ви: “Чудово — дуже дякую!”
Cultural note: Bargaining works here; start lower, be polite, and be ready to meet in the middle.
Common shoppers’ follow-up questions (with Ukrainian translations)
You’ll often follow a price question with more specifics. These phrases help you get exact answers.
“Is this available in another color?” — “Це доступно в іншому кольорі?”
“Do you have this in children’s sizes?” — “У вас є це в дитячих розмірах?”
“Can you ship this today?” — “Чи можете ви відправити це сьогодні?”
“Is there a restocking fee?” — “Чи є плата за повернення товару на склад?”
“Can I get a receipt emailed to me?” — “Чи можете ви надіслати мені чек електронною поштою?”
Cultural note: Don’t be shy to ask follow-up questions. Staff expect and welcome them.
Cultural etiquette: do’s and don’ts
Knowing a few cultural rules helps you avoid awkward situations and get better service while shopping.
Do say “Excuse me,” “Please,” and “Thank you.” Politeness opens doors.
Do ask clearly about tax and final price — it’s common and expected.
Don’t assume prices include tax. It’s safer to confirm.
Don’t push for a discount in big chain stores. It’s usually a no, unless you have a valid coupon or price match.
Do keep receipts for returns and warranties. Receipts are proof of purchase and make life easy.
Don’t leave items in fitting rooms or shopping carts; staff appreciate orderly spaces and will often help you with placement.
Cultural note: Customer service in the U.S. is often friendly and geared to help. If something is wrong, calmly explain the issue — most managers will help you resolve it quickly.
Final practice: roleplay questions to practice aloud
Practice helps your confidence. Try these short roleplay prompts by yourself or with a friend:
- Ask the clerk how much an item costs and whether tax is included.
- Ask for a different size and check fitting room availability.
- Message a seller online to ask about shipping to Ukraine and payment methods.
- Negotiate at a flea market for a lower price on a handmade item.
Each roleplay will improve your fluency and comfort with the phrases you’ll use most often.
Conclusion: keep practicing and get help from native speakers
Asking for prices in American English becomes easy with practice. Use the phrases and dialogues above when you shop, and remember cultural tips about sales tax, sizing, and bargaining. If you want personalized practice and native-level feedback, learn native American English price-checking conversations with online lessons today from Sofiia and her team of native Ukrainian speakers. They’ll help you practice real conversations, correct your pronunciation, and give tips tailored to the stores and markets you visit. Follow YouDoYou.school on Instagram @YouDoYou.school for updates, practice clips, and testimonials from other native Ukrainian speakers about their own experience with online lessons.