English · A2 · vocabulary · 4 minutes
Shopping and payment
Ask about price, size, discounts, payment, and returns.
Understand the choice
A complete shopping exchange moves through item, price, size, payment, and possible return. Learn the verb-noun pairs check the price, try a size, keep the receipt, and return an item.
Core rule: On sale means discounted; pay in cash/by card and ask for a receipt at the checkout.
Notice it in context
This jacket is on sale, but I need a larger size.
Esta chaqueta está de oferta, pero necesito una talla más grande.
On sale is a fixed phrase; larger compares size and need takes a noun.
The price is low, and I pay by card at the checkout.
The item is inexpensive; I use a card where customers pay.
Price, card, and checkout appear directly.
I need the receipt to make a return for cash.
The proof of payment lets me take the item back and receive cash.
Receipt, return, and cash form the after-sale sequence.
What to remember
- In a sale can mean during a sale event; on sale describes a discounted item.
- Change can mean returned coins/notes or an exchange depending on context.
Common trap: Do not use cheap for every low price when it may suggest poor quality.