Bargaining: meaning, definitions and examples

💰
Add to dictionary

bargaining

 

[ ˈbɑːrɡənɪŋ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

in negotiation

Bargaining refers to the process of negotiating the terms of a transaction or agreement between two or more parties. It involves making offers, counteroffers, and concessions in order to reach a mutually acceptable deal.

Synonyms

deal-making, haggling, negotiation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
bargaining

Used to describe the process of discussing terms in a general sense, often in financial or commercial transactions. Can be applied to various scenarios where two parties are trying to reach an agreement.

  • Her bargaining skills are exceptional; she managed to get a higher salary.
  • Bargaining over the price of the car took several hours.
negotiation

A broad term that encompasses the overall process of discussions aimed at reaching an agreement. It is used in a variety of contexts, including business, law, and daily life, and does not necessarily imply a financial component.

  • The negotiation between the two companies lasted for several weeks.
  • Successful negotiation requires careful listening and compromise.
haggling

Specifically describes the back-and-forth negotiation over prices, often in a more informal or market-like setting. It suggests a more drawn-out, contentious process and may carry a slightly negative connotation.

  • They spent an hour haggling over the price of the antique vase.
  • Haggling is common in street markets where sellers expect customers to negotiate.
deal-making

Refers to the process of creating agreements or contracts, often within a business or political environment. It emphasizes the act of closing deals and is frequently used in professional and corporate settings.

  • The company's success is attributed to the CEO's exceptional deal-making abilities.
  • Deal-making in the political arena requires a deep understanding of both parties' interests.

Examples of usage

  • The bargaining between the union and management took several weeks before they reached a compromise.
  • She engaged in bargaining with the vendor to get a better price for the product.
  • Effective bargaining skills are essential in business negotiations.
  • The art of bargaining involves finding a middle ground that satisfies both parties.
  • Successful bargaining requires good communication and compromise.
Context #2 | Verb

in negotiation

To bargain is to engage in negotiations with the aim of reaching an agreement. It often involves discussing terms, prices, or conditions in order to come to a mutually beneficial arrangement.

Synonyms

deal, haggle, negotiate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
bargaining

Used in general situations where two parties are trying to agree on the terms of an exchange, often involving price adjustments.

  • Bargaining at the street market can help you save money.
  • She has a talent for bargaining and always gets the best prices.
negotiate

Formal term generally used in professional or diplomatic contexts where parties are trying to reach an agreement through discussion.

  • We need to negotiate better terms for our contract.
  • Diplomats are negotiating a peace treaty.
haggle

Used more informally and often implies a contentious or competitive form of negotiation, typically over price. It has a slight negative connotation.

  • They spent an hour haggling over the price of the car.
  • It's common to haggle at flea markets.
deal

Appropriate when referring to an agreement between parties, often in a commercial or business context.

  • We finally closed the deal with the new supplier.
  • They struck a deal to share the profits equally.

Examples of usage

  • They bargained for a lower price on the car before finalizing the purchase.
  • We are still bargaining with the contractor over the terms of the renovation project.
  • She bargained with the seller to include free shipping with the purchase.
  • If you want a discount, you'll need to bargain with the salesperson.
  • The customer bargained for a refund after receiving a defective product.

Translations

Translations of the word "bargaining" in other languages:

🇵🇹 negociação

🇮🇳 मोलभाव

🇩🇪 Verhandlung

🇮🇩 tawar-menawar

🇺🇦 торг

🇵🇱 negocjacje

🇯🇵 交渉 (こうしょう)

🇫🇷 négociation

🇪🇸 negociación

🇹🇷 pazarlık

🇰🇷 협상 (협상)

🇸🇦 مفاوضة

🇨🇿 vyjednávání

🇸🇰 vyjednávanie

🇨🇳 谈判 (tánpàn)

🇸🇮 pogajanje

🇮🇸 samningaviðræður

🇰🇿 келіссөздер

🇬🇪 მოლაპარაკება

🇦🇿 danışıqlar

🇲🇽 negociación

Etymology

The word 'bargaining' originated from the Old French word 'bargaignier', meaning to haggle or barter. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe the process of negotiating terms or prices. Bargaining plays a significant role in various aspects of life, from business transactions to personal interactions, and is often seen as a crucial skill in achieving favorable outcomes.

See also: bargainable, bargains.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,591, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.