combien ça coûte

Meaning

The phrase combien ça coûte translates to how much does it cost in English. It is used to inquire about the price of something.

Usage and formality

This is a common and versatile phrase suitable for most everyday situations. It is generally considered neutral in terms of formality, making it appropriate for use with shopkeepers, vendors, or in casual conversations. It is the standard way to ask for the price.

Pronunciation

The pronunciation is approximately kom-byan sa koot. Note the nasal sound in 'combien' and the liaison between 'ça' and 'coûte' which is often subtle in spoken French.

Grammar

Combien means how much or how many. Ça is a demonstrative pronoun meaning that or it. Coûte is the third-person singular present tense of the verb coûter, meaning to cost. The structure is a common way to form questions in French, often omitting the subject pronoun when it's clear from context.

Word by word

• combien: how much/many
• ça: that/it
• coûte: costs (from coûter)

Lookup card note

Use this phrase when you need to ask for the price of an item.

Notes

combien ça coûte - how much does it cost. Ask for the price of an item.