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LESSON 5 · Travel English Survival Kit

Phrases That Work

Smooth negotiation uses specific language:

  • "Is there any flexibility on the price?" — opens the door without offense
  • "What's the best you can do?" — asks for their lowest directly
  • "I was thinking more like [amount]" — states your counteroffer
  • "Could you do [amount] if I buy two?" — the volume-discount approach
  • "That's a bit more than I was hoping to spend" — polite pushback

Use these confidently but respectfully, and most sellers will meet you halfway. The golden rule: stay friendly and treat it as a conversation, not a contest.