These characters combine literally to mean “ask for a price, return a price” (讨价, 还价). This perfectly captures the two-way street of haggling: the seller asks for a price, and the buyer returns with a counter-offer. The repetition of this process is what defines 讨价还价.
In many Western cultures, especially in the US, haggling is uncommon outside of major purchases like cars or homes. The price you see is the price you pay. Attempting to bargain in a department store would be seen as strange or even rude. In China, 讨价还价 holds a very different, and much broader, cultural space. It is a deeply ingrained part of the commercial landscape, especially in places like tourist markets, antique stalls, and with street vendors. It's not just about saving money; it's a social game. Successfully bargaining demonstrates cleverness and can build a momentary rapport (关系, guānxi) with the vendor. It is often a lighthearted interaction rather than a hostile confrontation. Not bargaining in a context where it's expected might signal you're an inexperienced tourist, likely resulting in you paying a much higher price. This practice reflects a more fluid and relationship-based approach to commerce, contrasting with the fixed, impersonal transactions common in the West.
Knowing where and when to 讨价还价 is a key skill for anyone living in or visiting China.
The connotation is generally neutral when describing the act itself. However, it can be used with a slightly negative tone to describe someone who is petty or argues over every small cost, e.g., “他连买棵白菜都要讨价还价” (He even haggles over a head of cabbage).
While you can translate 讨价还价 as “negotiate,” it's crucial to understand the context. 讨价还价 almost always implies haggling over the price of goods or simple services. For more formal, high-stakes situations like business deals, diplomatic talks, or legal settlements, the term 谈判 (tánpàn) is far more appropriate. Using 讨价还价 for a multi-million dollar merger would sound very out of place and diminish its seriousness.
The most common mistake for foreigners is assuming they can bargain in all retail environments. Trying to 讨价还价 in a Starbucks, a Uniqlo, or a modern supermarket will, at best, be met with confusion and, at worst, be considered rude. Look for price tags. If they are professionally printed and displayed, the price is almost certainly fixed.