What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
negotiate
Example
The two countries are negotiating a trade agreement. [negotiating: present participle]
Example
We need to negotiate a compromise that works for everyone. [negotiate: verb]
bargain
Example
I got a great bargain on this shirt at the thrift store. [bargain: noun]
Example
She bargained with the vendor to get a better price on the rug. [bargained: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bargain is more commonly used than negotiate in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. Negotiate is more commonly used in professional or legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between negotiate and bargain?
Negotiate is a more formal term that is often used in professional or legal contexts, while bargain is a more casual term that can be used in everyday language. Therefore, negotiate is more formal than bargain.
