Bargain Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bargain

[หˆbษ‘หrษกษ™n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

shopping

A bargain is a product or service that is offered at a lower price than usual, often in order to attract customers or sell old stock. It is a good deal or a discount.

Synonyms

deal, discount, offer.

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Word Description / Examples
bargain

Used when referring to a product or service that is available at a significantly lower price than usual, often implying a good value for the money. Can also imply a negotiation process.

  • I found a great bargain on this laptop; it was 50% off.
  • She loves to bargain at flea markets for the best prices.
deal

This term generally indicates an agreement between two or more parties. It can also refer to something being offered at a reduced price, similar to 'bargain'.

  • We finally made a deal with the supplier.
  • There is a special deal on shoes this weekend.
discount

Primarily used when a reduction from the regular price is offered. It is often seen in sales and promotions.

  • This store offers a discount for students.
  • I got a 20% discount on my new phone.
offer

Usually refers to something that is provided for a certain period, which could include discounts, deals, or special promotions.

  • The supermarket has a special offer on fruit this week.
  • She received a job offer from the tech company.

Examples of usage

  • I found a great bargain on these shoes.
  • The supermarket is having a bargain sale on electronics this weekend.
Context #2 | Verb

negotiation

To bargain means to negotiate the terms of a transaction or agreement, especially in terms of price. It involves discussing and haggling to reach a mutually beneficial outcome.

Synonyms

haggle, haggle over, negotiate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bargain

Often used to describe a good deal or purchase made at a lower price than usual. It can also mean an agreement between two parties settling what each gives or receives in a transaction.

  • I found a real bargain at the flea market yesterday.
  • They made a bargain to share the profits equally.
negotiate

Used in formal or business contexts where two or more parties discuss terms to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Itโ€™s common in business deals, salary discussions, and diplomatic negotiations.

  • The company is negotiating a new contract with the suppliers.
  • They had to negotiate for several hours before finding a compromise.
haggle

Commonly used in the context of negotiating the price of goods or services, often in markets or when buying something directly from the seller. It can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation, implying a prolonged or intense negotiation.

  • He loves to haggle for the best price at the market.
  • They spent almost an hour haggling over the cost of the car.
haggle over

Specific to negotiating the price or details of something, usually when there's disagreement or it takes time to come to an agreement. This phrase emphasizes the ongoing nature of the negotiation.

  • We haggled over the final price of the house for weeks.
  • There's no point in haggling over such a small amount.

Examples of usage

  • They bargained for a lower price on the house.
  • The union bargained with the company for better working conditions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Economics

  • In business, a bargain can drive sales and increase customer traffic, especially during sales events.
  • Negotiating a bargain helps teach important life skills, like compromise and financial literacy.
  • The phrase 'bargain basement' refers to very low-priced merchandise, often found in discount stores.

Pop Culture

  • Bargain hunting has become a popular pastime, celebrated in reality TV shows focused on thrift shopping.
  • Many influencers and bloggers share tips on finding the best bargains at thrift stores and online marketplaces.
  • Movies often depict characters negotiating for bargains, symbolizing cleverness or resourcefulness.

Psychology

  • Getting a bargain can trigger feelings of happiness and satisfaction, enhancing the shopping experience.
  • Psychologically, people may feel a sense of achievement when they successfully negotiate a better price.
  • Cognitive biases, like the 'fear of missing out', can make deals seem more appealing, even if they aren't necessary.

Literature

  • Bargains in literature often symbolize moral or ethical negotiations that characters face.
  • Classic tales, such as 'Dr. Faustus', explore the idea of making bargains with greater implications.
  • Modern novels sometimes use the concept of a bargain to illustrate character development and choices.

Origin of 'bargain'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'bargain', meaning 'to negotiate'.
  • It has roots in the Old French word 'bargein', which referred to making a deal.
  • Originally, it was closely tied to the practice of bargaining in market places.

The word 'bargain' originated from the Old French word 'bargaignier', which meant 'to haggle'. It entered the English language in the 14th century. The concept of a bargain has been a part of human commerce for centuries, as people have always sought to get the best possible deal when making a purchase.


Word Frequency Rank

At #5,774 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.