
What polite expressions can I use to negotiate prices in China
When negotiating prices in China, polite expressions often involve using hedges, modal verbs, and softening language to show respect and eagerness for cooperation. Common strategies include saying phrases that soften requests or offers, indicating willingness to discuss terms, and showing appreciation for the other party’s position. Expressions like “Could we possibly consider…”, “Would it be acceptable if…”, or “I wonder if there might be some flexibility on…” are polite ways to initiate price negotiations. Also, emphasizing mutual benefit and partnership is culturally appreciated, so phrases like “We hope to reach a mutually beneficial agreement” or “Looking forward to a long-term collaboration” help keep the tone positive.
Additionally, acknowledging the value of the product or service before discussing price shows respect, for example, “We recognize the quality of your product…” before suggesting a price adjustment.
Overall, using indirect speech, polite modal verbs, and showing respect for the other party aligns with Chinese cultural communication preferences in business negotiations. 1, 2
References
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Cultural and Social Interpretation of Chinese Addressing Strategies.
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The Translation of Address Terms in Showing Politeness from Chinese into English
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Trends of Negotiated Targeted Anticancer Medicines Use in China: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis
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Correcting the Misuse: A Method for the Chinese Idiom Cloze Test
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Prices and Clinical Benefit of National Price-Negotiated Anticancer Medicines in China
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Price negotiation and pricing of anticancer drugs in China: An observational study
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On the Politeness Strategies in Chinese Internet Relay Chat Communication