Dickering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dickering
[ˈdɪkərɪŋ ]
Definition
bargaining behavior
Dickering refers to the act of negotiating or bargaining, often in a petty or trivial manner. It implies a back-and-forth dialogue where terms and conditions are hashed out, usually with some level of haggling. This term is often used in the context of small transactions or negotiations that do not involve significant sums of money. The term suggests a playful or somewhat frustrating effort to come to an agreement. Dickering can be seen in markets, auctions, or informal sales situations.
Synonyms
bargain, cavil, haggle, negotiate, quibble.
Examples of usage
- He spent hours dickering over the price of the old car.
- They were dickering about the terms of the contract.
- Don't waste time dickering; just make a decision.
- She enjoys dickering with salespeople to get the best deals.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, dickering is not just about price but is a social interaction that can build relationships.
- Different countries have varying levels of openness to dickering; for instance, it's expected in markets in parts of the Middle East, while less so in many Western settings.
- In some cultures, successful dickering is seen as a sign of good negotiation skills and personal charm.
Psychology
- Research shows that people often engage in dickering to feel a sense of control and agency in transactions.
- Negotiating can invoke feelings of excitement and satisfaction, resulting in a positive emotional release when a deal is reached.
- However, excessive dickering can also lead to disappointments if expectations are unrealistically high.
Pop Culture
- Dickering appears in various films and TV shows, particularly those focused on treasure hunting or market bargaining.
- Popular poker games often involve elements of dickering, where players negotiate terms or stakes among themselves.
- Books about negotiating skills frequently reference the concept of dickering as a key aspect of making deals.
Literature
- The term 'dickering' is used in literature to depict characters involved in shrewd negotiations, often highlighting their cunning nature.
- Authors often use scenarios involving dickering to illustrate social dynamics, power plays, and character development.
- In classic novels, characters engaging in dickering often reveal their true motives and desires, creating rich narrative conflict.
Origin of 'dickering'
Main points about word origin
- The term originated in the early 19th century, possibly from the Northern English dialect, where it meant to barter.
- It is believed that 'dicker' may be derived from the German word 'dickere', meaning 'to trade' or 'to negotiate'.
- The word was popularized in American English, especially during the late 19th-century gold rush era, when haggling became common.
The word 'dickering' originates from the late 19th century, primarily in the United States. It is derived from the word 'dicker,' which was used in the dialects of various North American regions. The etymology traces back to the German word 'dickern' which means 'to bargain.' The concept of arguing over prices, especially in a manner that is unproductive or trivial, is central to the term. Throughout the years, 'dickering' has become associated with more informal settings, particularly in markets or with street vendors, where the final price is often subject to negotiation. This term reflects the cultural practices of haggling that are prevalent in various societies around the world, demonstrating humanity's long-standing relationship with trade and commerce.