Italian Phrase
Questo negozio è caro?
Meaning
The sentence asks whether the shop being pointed at has high prices. It’s a straightforward way to inquire about the cost level of a particular store, often before deciding whether to shop there.
When to use
Use this question when you’re standing in front of a shop, comparing several options, or discussing budgeting with a friend. It works in casual conversation, at a market, or when asking a salesperson for price‑level advice.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Questonegozioècaro?
Questo
Demonstrative adjective meaning 'this', agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies.
negozio
Masculine singular noun meaning 'store' or 'shop'.
è
Third‑person singular present of the verb 'essere' (to be).
caro
Adjective meaning 'expensive' or 'dear'; must agree with the masculine noun (caro, not cara).
🗨In Conversation
Questo negozio è caro?
Is this store expensive?
Sì, i prezzi sono un po' alti, ma la qualità è buona.
Yes, the prices are a bit high, but the quality is good.
✕Common Mistakes
Questo negozio è cara?
The adjective must agree with the masculine noun 'negozio'; use 'caro', not 'cara'.
Questo negozio è costo?
‘Costo’ is a noun or past participle, not an adjective. Use 'caro' or 'costoso' instead.
↔Alternatives
È costoso questo negozio?
Is this store costly?
Questo negozio costa molto?
Does this store cost a lot?
Questo negozio ha prezzi elevati?
Does this store have high prices?
Cultural Tip
In Italy, talking about price is perfectly acceptable, but you’ll often hear softer phrasing like 'un po' caro' or 'prezzi alti'. In the north people may be more direct, while in the south they might use 'costoso' or add a friendly smile to keep the tone light. Remember that adjectives must match the gender of the noun—'caro' for masculine 'negozio', 'cara' for feminine nouns.