discount
/ˈdɪs.kaʊnt/ IELTSAcademic
noun
A reduction in the normal price of something. It can also mean a lower amount or value than expected.
- We got a 20% discount on the shoes.
- Students receive a discount on tickets.
- The shop offers a discount for online orders.
verb
To reduce the price of something. It can also mean to think something is not important or not likely.
- The store discounted all summer clothes.
- Do not discount her idea too quickly.
- He discounted the warning and made the same mistake.
Adinary Nuance
Discount is closer to a price cut or a reduced amount than to words like 'sale' or 'bargain.' As a verb, it often means to ignore or underrate something, which is different from simple 'reduce.' In business writing, it sounds more neutral and formal than casual words like 'cheap' or 'cut down.'
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- giảm giá
- Spanish
- descuento
- Chinese
- 折扣
- Japanese
- 割引
- Korean
- 할인
Etymology
Discount came into English from Old French in the 1300s, from Latin roots meaning 'to count away' or 'deduct.' The price meaning developed first.
Common phrases
discount pricediscount storestudent discounttrade discount
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is 'discount' a formal word?
- Yes, it is common in business and shopping. It is neutral and works well in writing.
- What is the difference between 'discount' and 'sale'?
- 'Discount' is the lower price itself. 'Sale' is an event when items are sold at lower prices.
- Can 'discount' be used as a verb?
- Yes. It can mean to lower the price or to treat something as less important.
- Is 'discount' used in IELTS writing?
- Yes, it is useful for shopping, business, and economic topics.