
🔹 Formal Situations
1. Business Negotiation (Formal)
Client: I was wondering if there’s any possibility of a discount on your services.
Supplier: I appreciate your interest, but unfortunately, our pricing is fixed due to the quality and scope of the services provided.
Client: I understand. Thank you for the clarification.
Supplier: You’re most welcome. We’re confident the value justifies the cost.
2. Corporate Email Exchange (Formal)
Client: Could you please consider a reduced rate for bulk orders?
Sales Rep: Thank you for your query. Regrettably, we are unable to offer further reductions as our bulk rates are already highly competitive.
Client: I see. I’ll discuss it with my team and get back to you.
Sales Rep: Certainly. We’ll be here to assist whenever you’re ready.
3. Legal Consultation (Formal)
Client: Would you be open to negotiating your consultation fee?
Lawyer: I’m afraid the rate is standard and reflects the expertise provided.
Client: That makes sense. Thank you for your time.
Lawyer: My pleasure. Let me know how you’d like to proceed.
4. Hotel Reservation (Formal)
Guest: I noticed the price is a bit high. Any chance of a discount?
Receptionist: I’m sorry, sir, but the listed rates are non-negotiable, especially during peak season.
Guest: Alright, I understand.
Receptionist: Thank you for your understanding.
5. Art Commission (Formal)
Client: Could you offer a better price on this commission?
Artist: Thank you for asking, but I cannot reduce the price as it reflects the materials, time, and originality involved.
Client: Fair enough. I appreciate the honesty.
Artist: Of course. I’m glad you value the process.
🔹 Semi-Formal Situations
6. Private Tutor Booking (Semi-Formal)
Student: Is there a student discount for these lessons?
Tutor: I usually keep the price as is, since each session is tailored to individual needs.
Student: Got it. The customization makes it worth it.
Tutor: Exactly, and I’ll make sure you get the most out of each class.
7. Photographer Booking (Semi-Formal)
Client: I love your portfolio. Can we talk about possibly lowering the price a bit?
Photographer: I appreciate that! However, my pricing covers both the shoot and the post-editing work, so I can’t really offer a discount.
Client: That’s understandable. Thanks for explaining.
Photographer: No problem at all!
8. Landlord and Tenant Discussion (Semi-Formal)
Tenant: Would you consider lowering the rent slightly?
Landlord: I understand the request, but the current rate aligns with the market and covers maintenance.
Tenant: Okay, thanks for being upfront.
Landlord: Happy to discuss any other concerns you may have.
9. Local Seller and Buyer (Semi-Formal)
Buyer: This item is lovely, but is there room for a small discount?
Seller: I wish I could, but the price is firm because of the quality and rarity.
Buyer: Makes sense. I still think it’s worth it.
Seller: I’m glad you do!
10. Dog Walker Service (Semi-Formal)
Client: Do you ever offer deals for long-term clients?
Walker: I do appreciate loyalty, but my rates stay consistent to maintain service quality.
Client: That’s fair. Thanks for letting me know.
Walker: Anytime!
🔹 Informal Situations
11. Coffee Shop Chat (Informal)
Customer: Hey, can you do a discount on this coffee? It’s a bit pricey.
Barista: I wish I could, but the prices are set by the cafe.
Customer: Ah, okay. I’ll take it anyway.
Barista: Thanks! I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.
12. Friend Selling Clothes (Informal)
Friend 1: I saw that jacket you’re selling. Could you lower the price for me?
Friend 2: Honestly, I can’t. It’s already a good deal considering it’s in perfect condition.
Friend 1: Fair enough! I’ll think about it.
Friend 2: Take your time. Let me know!
13. Used Car Sale (Informal)
Buyer: Is the price negotiable?
Seller: Sorry, I’ve already priced it very fairly for its age and condition.
Buyer: Alright, I see. I’ll think it over.
Seller: No rush. Let me know what you decide.
14. Home Renovation (Informal)
Homeowner: Could you drop the price a little? I’m on a budget.
Contractor: I totally get that, but the price is set because of the quality materials I use.
Homeowner: That makes sense. I’ll stick to it.
Contractor: Thanks for understanding. I’m confident you’ll be happy with the result!
15. Group Dinner (Informal)
Friend 1: Hey, do we really need to pay full price for the meal? I thought there might be a discount.
Friend 2: Unfortunately, no discounts this time. But I think the food is worth the price.
Friend 1: Yeah, you’re right. It was really good!
Friend 2: Glad you enjoyed it!
16. Online Shopping (Informal)
Customer: Is there any way you could make it cheaper?
Seller: I’m afraid not, as that’s the best price we can offer right now.
Customer: Bummer, but I get it.
Seller: Thanks for understanding! Let me know if you need help with anything else.
17. Hair Salon Appointment (Informal)
Customer: Can you give me a discount since I’m a regular?
Stylist: I really appreciate your loyalty, but the prices are fixed for all clients.
Customer: That’s cool. I still love coming here!
Stylist: We love having you!
18. Ticket Purchase (Informal)
Customer: Could you reduce the price for a student?
Ticket Seller: I’m sorry, but there’s no student discount available for this event.
Customer: Oh, okay. I’ll still get one!
Ticket Seller: Great! You’ll enjoy the show.
19. Renting Equipment (Informal)
Customer: Is there any way to lower the price for a week’s rental?
Rental Service: Unfortunately, the rates are set, but we do offer some great deals if you rent for a longer period.
Customer: That’s good to know. I might do that next time.
Rental Service: Anytime! Let me know if you need anything else.
20. Grocery Store (Informal)
Customer: Is there a chance you could give me a discount on these fruits?
Shopkeeper: Sorry, but these prices are already the best we can offer.
Customer: Okay, no worries. They look fresh anyway.
Shopkeeper: Glad you think so! Enjoy your shopping.
🔹 Semi-Formal and Informal Situations
21. Freelance Graphic Design (Semi-Formal)
Client: Could you offer a discount on the price for a larger project?
Designer: I can definitely offer a package deal, but the individual rates are set to reflect the time and effort required.
Client: Alright, I understand. The work you’ve done is impressive, so I’ll proceed.
Designer: Thanks! I look forward to working on this project with you.
22. Restaurant Meal (Semi-Formal)
Customer: Do you have any promotions or discounts on the menu?
Waiter: Unfortunately, no discounts at the moment, but we do have some set menus that offer great value.
Customer: That’s fine. I’ll stick with the regular menu then.
Waiter: Sounds good. I’m sure you’ll enjoy your meal.
23. Event Planning (Semi-Formal)
Client: The pricing for this event package seems a bit high. Is there any room for a discount?
Planner: I understand your concern. However, our rates reflect the full service we provide, from planning to execution.
Client: That makes sense. I’ll keep that in mind and confirm soon.
Planner: Thank you! I’m sure you’ll be happy with everything we offer.
24. Personal Trainer (Semi-Formal)
Client: Can you lower the price of the personal training sessions if I sign up for more?
Trainer: I’d love to offer a discount, but the current pricing is already based on the level of personalization and expertise.
Client: That’s understandable. I’ll stick with the package as is.
Trainer: Great! I’m excited to work with you.
25. Fashion Boutique (Semi-Formal)
Customer: Are there any discounts for repeat customers?
Sales Associate: We don’t typically offer discounts, but we do have loyalty rewards for future purchases.
Customer: I appreciate that. I’ll keep shopping here.
Sales Associate: Thank you! We value your business.
26. Street Vendor (Informal)
Customer: How much for this shirt? Can you lower the price a bit?
Vendor: Sorry, the price is already as low as I can go. It’s a good deal for the quality!
Customer: Alright, I’ll take it.
Vendor: Thanks! I’m sure you’ll like it.
27. Garage Sale (Informal)
Buyer: How much for this lamp? Can you reduce the price?
Seller: It’s already a bargain, but I can knock a dollar off if you’d like.
Buyer: Okay, that works for me. Thanks!
Seller: No problem, enjoy the lamp!
28. Friend Selling a Phone (Informal)
Friend 1: Is there any chance you could drop the price of the phone?
Friend 2: I can’t really lower it, since it’s still in great condition and I’m already offering it below market value.
Friend 1: Fair enough. I’ll take it then.
Friend 2: Awesome, hope you enjoy it!
29. Fitness Class (Informal)
Client: Any chance of a discount if I sign up for multiple classes?
Instructor: I wish I could, but the prices are fixed due to the high demand and quality of the classes.
Client: Got it. I’ll go ahead and sign up for the regular rate.
Instructor: Thanks! I’m sure you’ll get a lot out of the sessions.
30. Discount on Travel Tour (Informal)
Traveler: Do you ever offer any discounts for tours?
Tour Guide: Unfortunately, our prices are set due to the high quality of the experience and the cost of organizing the tours.
Traveler: Okay, no worries. I’m still excited about the tour.
Tour Guide: That’s great to hear! I’m sure you’ll have a fantastic time.
1. Formal (Business Course)
Context: A student asks for a discount on an advanced business English course.
Student: Good morning. I’m interested in your Business English course, but the fee is slightly over my budget. Is there any possibility of a discount?
Admin: Good morning. I understand your concern, but the course fee is fixed due to the high-quality materials and expert instructors we provide. Unfortunately, we don’t offer discounts at this time.
Student: I see. Could you perhaps offer a payment plan instead?
Admin: Yes, we do have installment options available. Would you like me to send you the details?
Student: That would be great, thank you.
2. Semi-Formal (Private Tutor)
Context: A learner negotiates with a private tutor over fees.
Student: Hi, I saw your ad for English lessons. Your rate is a bit high for me—would you consider lowering it?
Tutor: Hello! I appreciate your interest, but my rates reflect my experience and the personalized lessons I provide. I’m afraid I can’t reduce the price.
Student: What if I book more sessions? Could you give a small discount?
Tutor: I can offer a 5% discount if you prepay for 10 lessons. Would that work for you?
Student: That’s fair. Let’s do that.
3. Informal (Language Exchange)
Context: A friend asks for free help instead of paid lessons.
Friend: Hey, I know you teach English—can you just help me for free? We’re friends, right?
You: Haha, I wish I could! But teaching takes a lot of time and effort. Maybe we can do a language exchange instead—you help me with Spanish, and I help you with English?
Friend: Oh, that makes sense. Deal!
4. Formal (University Language Program)
Context: A student requests a discount for a university English program.
Student: I’d like to enroll in your intensive English program, but the cost is quite high. Do you offer any scholarships or discounts?
Advisor: Unfortunately, the tuition is non-negotiable as it covers all materials, exams, and faculty support. However, we do have early-bird discounts if you register before the deadline.
Student: I see. When is the deadline?
Advisor: It’s next Friday. Would you like me to reserve a spot for you?
5. Semi-Formal (Online Course Platform)
Context: A customer asks for a discount on an online course.
Customer: Hi, I’m interested in your Advanced Grammar Course. Do you ever run promotions?
Support: Thanks for reaching out! We occasionally offer seasonal discounts, but currently, the price is fixed. However, if you sign up for our newsletter, you’ll be notified of any future deals.
Customer: Okay, I’ll do that. Thanks!
6. Informal (Freelance Tutor on Social Media)
Context: A potential student messages a tutor on Instagram asking for a lower rate.
Student: Hey! Loved your profile. Can you do 15/hourinsteadof15/hourinsteadof20?
Tutor: Thanks for reaching out! My rates are based on my experience and preparation time, so I can’t go lower. But I do offer a free trial lesson if you’d like to try first.
Student: Fair enough—I’ll take the trial!
7. Formal (Corporate Training)
Context: A company requests a discount for group English training.
Manager: We’d like to enroll five employees in your Business English program. Could you offer a group discount?
Trainer: Our prices are already competitive for corporate packages, but we can include an extra workshop at no additional cost. Would that be of interest?
Manager: That sounds reasonable. Let’s proceed.
8. Semi-Formal (Language School)
Context: A student asks for a discount on a course package.
Student: I’m signing up for two courses—could I get a discount?
Admin: Since you’re committing to multiple courses, we can offer a 10% bundle discount.
Student: Perfect, I’ll take it!
9. Informal (Tutoring Marketplace)
Context: A learner tries to negotiate with a tutor on a tutoring app.
Student: Your profile looks great, but can you do 25insteadof25insteadof30?
Tutor: Sorry, my rates are firm because I provide customized lessons. But I’d be happy to help if the price works for you!
Student: Okay, I’ll book a session.
10. Formal (Exam Preparation Course)
Context: A parent asks for a discount for their child’s IELTS course.
Parent: The IELTS course fee is quite high. Do you offer any family discounts?
Center: Unfortunately, our exam prep courses have fixed pricing due to official materials and certified trainers. However, we do provide free mock tests with enrollment.
Parent: That’s helpful. We’ll proceed.
11. Formal (Professional Certification Course)
Context: A professional asks for a discount on an English certification program.
Client: I’m interested in your C1 Advanced Certification course. Is there any flexibility in pricing?
Course Coordinator: Unfortunately, the fee is standardized to maintain quality and accreditation. However, we do offer a referral discount if you recommend another participant.
Client: I see. I’ll consider that—thank you.
12. Semi-Formal (Online Private Lesson)
Context: A student asks for a lower rate via email.
Student: Hi [Tutor’s Name], I’d love to take lessons with you, but your rate is slightly above my budget. Could we negotiate?
Tutor: *Thanks for your interest! My rates reflect my expertise and preparation time, so I can’t lower them. However, I offer a free 20-minute trial to see if it’s a good fit.*
Student: That’s fair—I’ll book the trial. Thanks!
13. Informal (Friend Asking for Free Help)
Context: A friend asks for unpaid English practice.
Friend: Hey, you’re fluent in English—can you just chat with me sometimes to help me improve?
You: I’d love to help, but I’m really busy with work. Maybe we can do a language exchange? You help me with [your target language], and I’ll help you with English.
Friend: Sounds good! Let’s try that.
14. Formal (University Extension Course)
Context: A student requests a discount for an academic English program.
Student: I noticed your Academic Writing course is quite expensive. Are there any scholarships available?
Administrator: The tuition is fixed to cover faculty and resources, but we do offer payment plans. Would you like information on those?
Student: Yes, please. That would help.
15. Semi-Formal (Language School for Teens)
Context: A parent negotiates for their child’s group class.
Parent: Do you offer sibling discounts for your teen English classes?
Advisor: We don’t reduce individual fees, but if both siblings enroll, we can waive the registration fee for the second child.
Parent: That works—we’ll sign up both.
16. Informal (Marketplace Tutor)
Context: A student messages a tutor on a learning app.
Student: Hi! I like your profile, but can you do 18/hrinsteadof18/hrinsteadof25?
Tutor: Thanks for asking! My rate is firm because I provide personalized materials. But I do offer discounts for bulk bookings—interested?
Student: Okay, how much for 10 lessons?
17. Formal (Corporate Language Training)
Context: A company negotiates for employee training.
HR Manager: *We need Business English training for 10 employees. Can you adjust the per-person cost?*
Trainer: Our corporate rates are already competitive, but we can include a free needs assessment. Would that help?
HR Manager: Yes, let’s move forward.
18. Semi-Formal (Conversation Club)
Context: A member asks for a lower membership fee.
Member: I love the conversation club, but the monthly fee is steep. Any chance of a discount?
Organizer: The fee covers venue and materials, so we can’t reduce it. But we do offer a 10% discount for annual payments.
Member: I’ll think about that—thanks!
19. Informal (Social Media Tutor)
Context: A follower asks for a cheaper rate.
Follower: Hey! Your lessons look great, but can you do a lower price for students?
Tutor: I appreciate the ask! My rates are set based on my time and expertise, but I post free tips on my page—check those out!
Follower: Cool, I’ll follow for now.
20. Formal (Government Language Program)
Context: A participant asks about fee reductions.
Applicant: Is there financial aid available for your official English program?
Officer: The program fee is subsidized and non-negotiable, but we partner with banks for low-interest loans. Would you like details?
Applicant: Yes, please send me the info.
21. Semi-Formal (Online Group Class)
Context: A student asks for a discount on a webinar.
Student: Your live webinar sounds great, but it’s pricey. Any promo codes?
Host: The price reflects expert instruction and interactive materials. However, we offer a 15% discount for early registrations—use EARLYBIRD by Friday.
Student: Got it—I’ll sign up now!
22. Informal (Friend’s Recommendation)
Context: A friend asks for a “friend discount.”
Friend: My cousin needs an English tutor—can you give them a discount since I referred them?
You: *I appreciate the referral! I can’t lower my rate, but I’ll add a bonus 30-minute session for their first booking.*
Friend: Nice! I’ll let them know.
23. Formal (Diploma Program)
Context: An applicant negotiates for an advanced diploma.
Applicant: Your diploma program is excellent but expensive. Are there installment plans?
Admissions: Yes, we offer monthly payments with no extra fees. Shall I email you the options?
Applicant: Please do—thank you.
24. Semi-Formal (Workshop Registration)
Context: A participant asks for a last-minute discount.
Participant: I missed the early-bird rate for your workshop. Any chance of a reduced fee?
Organizer: Sorry, the price is fixed now, but we’ll have another session next month with early-bird pricing.
Participant: Okay, I’ll wait for that one.
25. Informal (Tutor on WhatsApp)
Context: A potential student bargains over text.
Student: Hi! Can u do 20€ instead of 30€?
Tutor: Hi there! My rate is firm, but I offer a free trial lesson. Want to try it first?
Student: Sure, let’s do the trial.
26. Formal (Immersion Program Abroad)
Context: A student asks about program fees.
Student: Your immersion program’s cost is high. Are there hidden fees?
Coordinator: The price includes tuition, accommodation, and activities—no hidden costs. We also assist with visa paperwork at no extra charge.
Student: That’s reassuring. Thanks!
27. Semi-Formal (Book Club Membership)
Context: A member asks for a cheaper rate.
Member: I enjoy the book club, but the fee increased. Can I pay the old rate?
Organizer: The new fee covers better venues and guest speakers. But we do offer a student discount—are you eligible?
Member: No, but I’ll stick with it—it’s worth it.
28. Informal (Tutor at a Café)
Context: A learner asks for a casual discount.
Learner: Hey, if we meet at this café every week, can you charge less?
Tutor: I charge for my expertise, not the location—so the rate stays the same. But we can focus on conversation practice if you’d like!
Learner: Fair enough—let’s start next week.
29. Formal (Professional Networking Event)
Context: An attendee asks about ticket prices.
Attendee: The conference ticket is expensive. Do you offer group rates?
Organizer: *We don’t reduce individual tickets, but companies buying 5+ tickets get 10% off. Are you registering with a team?*
Attendee: No, just me. I’ll pay the full price.
30. Semi-Formal (Online Writing Course)
Context: A writer asks about discounts.
Writer: I’d love to take your course, but funds are tight. Any flexibility?
Instructor: I understand! The price reflects my personalized feedback, but I offer two scholarships per cohort. Applications open next month.
Writer: I’ll apply—thanks for the info!