可以便宜一点吗？

When to use

This is a standard phrase used in markets or smaller shops when you want to negotiate the price after finding out how much an item costs.

How it works

This is a request structure asking for a slight change in state.

• 可以 (kě yǐ) - can/may (modal verb)
• 便宜 (pián yi) - cheap/inexpensive (adjective)
• 一点 (yì diǎn) - a little (degree complement)
• 吗 (ma) - question particle

Grammar

The pattern 可以 + [Adjective] + 一点 + 吗? is used to politely request a reduction in the degree of the adjective, effectively asking for a discount.

Pronunciation

This phrase features multiple pronunciation rules: 可以 undergoes third tone sandhi, 便宜 has a neutral second syllable, and 一点 changes the tone of 一 to a fourth tone.

Notes

A polite and standard way to ask for a lower price or discount in markets.