When you have ever wondered how to say how much is this in french, you are not alone. Whether you are browsing a boutique in Marseille, negotiating at a flea market in Lyon, or simply chatting with a French‑speaking friend, mastering this simple question can boost your confidence and smooth out any transaction.
Short version: it depends. Long version — keep reading.
The Core Phrase: Combien coûte‑t‑il ?
The most direct translation of “How much is this?” in French is “Combien coûte‑t‑il ?”
- Combien = how much
- coûte = costs (verb coûter)
- ‑t‑il = it (the pronoun il attached to the verb for emphasis)
This phrase works for a single item. If you are pointing at several objects, use the plural form: “Combien coûtent‑ils ?”
Quick Pronunciation Guide
- Combien → /kɔ̃.bjɛ̃/ (the nasal “on” sound)
- coûte → /kut/ (the “ou” as in “book”)
- ‑t‑il → /t il/ (the “t” is pronounced lightly)
Formal vs. Informal Variations
French distinguishes between polite (formal) and casual (informal) registers. Choosing the right form shows respect and helps you blend in Turns out it matters..
| Register | Phrase | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Formal | Combien coûte‑t‑il ? (or **Combien coûte‑elle ?Even so, ** for feminine nouns) | Speaking to strangers, shopkeepers, or in professional settings. That said, |
| Informal | **Combien coûte‑t‑il ? ** (same phrase, but tone is relaxed) | Friends, family, or peers your age. |
| Very Casual | C’est combien ? | Among close acquaintances; literally “It’s how much?Plus, ” |
| Polite Alternative | **Pourriez‑vous me dire le prix ? ** | When you want extra courtesy, e.And g. , in a high‑end store. |
Real talk — this step gets skipped all the time Simple, but easy to overlook..
Tip: In everyday conversations, the difference between formal and informal is often conveyed through body language and tone rather than a completely different phrase That's the whole idea..
Expanding Your Vocabulary
Beyond the basic question, a few related words can enrich your inquiries:
- Le prix – the price
- Le coût – the cost (often used in more abstract contexts)
- La facture – the bill (when you receive it)
- Un prix raisonnable – a reasonable price
- Un bon marché – a good deal
Using these terms lets you ask follow‑up questions
