How to Ask "How Much Is This Meal?" in English
When dining out or ordering food in an English-speaking country, knowing how to ask about the price is essential. Below are common phrases and variations to use in different situations.
Common Phrases
1. Direct Question:
- "How much is this meal?"
- "What’s the price of this dish?"
2. Polite Inquiry:
- "Could you tell me how much this meal costs?"
- "Would you mind letting me know the price of this dish?"
3. Informal/Casual:
- "How much does this cost?"
- "What’s the damage?" (slang, often used humorously)
Variations Based on Context
| Situation | Phrase |
|---|---|
| At a restaurant | "What’s the total for our meal?" |
| Ordering takeout | "How much is the [dish name]?" |
| Checking a buffet price | "What’s the cost per person?" |
| Splitting the bill | "How much do I owe?" |
Additional Useful Terms
- Bill/Check: The written statement of what you owe (UK: "bill," US: "check").
- Service charge: An optional fee for service (usually 10-15%).
- Tip/Gratuity: Extra payment for good service.
Example in a sentence:
"Excuse me, could you let me know how much the seafood pasta costs before I order?"This phrasing ensures clarity while maintaining politeness in English-speaking dining environments.
