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Italian Phrase

I prezzi qui sono davvero più bassi?

/i ˈprɛt.tsi kwi ˈso.no daˈvve.ro pju ˈbas.si/
Meaning"Are the prices here really lower?"
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Meaning

This phrase is used to inquire if the prices in a specific location or for certain items are genuinely cheaper compared to elsewhere. It expresses a degree of skepticism or surprise, asking for confirmation about a perceived price advantage.

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When to use

You would typically use this phrase when shopping, comparing different stores, or discussing potential deals. It's perfect for situations where you want to verify if a place truly offers better value for money, perhaps after hearing a rumor or noticing a sign.

Grammar Breakdown

I prezziquisonodavveropiù bassi?

1

I prezzi

'I prezzi' means 'the prices'. 'Prezzo' is a masculine noun, so its plural form is 'prezzi' and it takes the definite article 'i'.

2

qui

'Qui' means 'here'. It's an adverb of place and is used to indicate a location close to the speaker.

3

sono

'Sono' is the third-person plural conjugation of the verb 'essere' (to be). It's used here to describe the state or quality of the prices.

4

davvero

'Davvero' means 'really' or 'truly'. It's an adverb used to emphasize or question the truthfulness of a statement.

5

più bassi

'Più bassi' means 'lower'. 'Più' means 'more', and 'bassi' is the masculine plural form of the adjective 'basso' (low), agreeing with 'i prezzi'.

🗨In Conversation

A

Ho sentito che questo negozio ha ottimi affari.

I heard this store has great deals.

Davvero? I prezzi qui sono davvero più bassi?

Really? Are the prices here really lower?

B

Common Mistakes

  • I prezzi qui stanno davvero più bassi?

    Use 'essere' (sono) for inherent qualities or states like prices, not 'stare' which is for temporary location or health.

  • I prezzi qui sono davvero più basso?

    The adjective 'bassi' (lower) must agree in gender and number with the noun 'prezzi' (prices), which is masculine plural.

  • Sono i prezzi qui davvero più bassi?

    While grammatically possible, the more natural and common word order for questions in Italian often places the subject before the verb, especially when asking for confirmation.

Alternatives

  • Sono più economici qui?

    Are they cheaper here?

  • Costano meno qui?

    Do they cost less here?

  • C'è uno sconto qui?

    Is there a discount here?

it

Cultural Tip

In Italy, bargaining is not common in regular retail stores, supermarkets, or chain shops. However, in open-air markets (mercati), especially for items like clothing, antiques, or souvenirs, a polite attempt at bargaining might be accepted, though it's not always expected. Asking about prices being 'lower' is generally a straightforward question about value, not an invitation to haggle.