कुछ तो छूट दो

Use it when the final price is quoted. Don't lead with this phrase. Wait for the shopkeeper to give you their 'best' price first. Then, look slightly disappointed. Shake your head gently and say Bhaiya, kuch toh chhoot do. It works best with a smile. You can add thodi (a little) before chhoot to sound even more persuasive. It is all about the rhythm and the tone.

This phrase shines in local bazaars and street stalls. Use it with rickshaw drivers if they quote a flat rate. Use it at a local boutique or a family-run hardware store. It is perfect for situations where prices aren't printed on a barcode. Even in semi-formal settings like renting an apartment, you can slip this in. It shows you are savvy and know the local ways.

Never use this in a shopping mall or a high-end brand store. Fixed-price shops will find it confusing or annoying. Do not use it for essential services like a hospital bill. Avoid using it if the person is already giving you a massive favor. If the price is already incredibly low, asking for more might seem greedy. Use your intuition to gauge the seller's margin.

In India, bargaining is a social dance. It is not just about saving money. It is about building a connection between the buyer and seller. A shopkeeper often expects you to ask for a discount. If you pay the first price, they might actually be surprised! Chhoot (discount) is considered a right of the customer in traditional markets. It represents the spirit of 'Jugaad' or finding a way to make things work for everyone.

If you want to sound more formal, use Thoda discount dijiye. If you are with friends and being playful, try Kuch toh kam karo. To be very firm, you can say Itne mein toh nahi ho payega. My personal favorite is adding Theek-theek lagao, which means "apply a fair price." Each variation changes the 'vibe' of the negotiation slightly.