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PhrasesPaying and ReceiptsIl prezzo in vetrina è diverso da quello al banco.
B1

Il prezzo in vetrina è diverso da quello al banco.

The price in the window is different from the one at the counter.

Pronunciation

'Vetrina' — ve-TRI-na. Three syllables.

When to use it

Use when you are charged more than the displayed price. In Italy, the displayed price is legally binding — if you are charged more, you can refuse to pay the difference.

What it means

'In vetrina' = in the window/display. 'Al banco' = at the counter. 'Diverso da' = different from. Italian consumer law requires that the price displayed must be the price charged. If a shop charges more, you can insist on the lower price or report them to the Camera di Commercio.

Variations

Il cartellino diceva venti euro.

The price tag said twenty euros.

Refers to the price tag on the item.

Questo prodotto era in offerta.

This product was on offer.

Claims promotional pricing.

Può controllare il prezzo?

Can you check the price?

Asks for verification.

Mini Dialogue

Cliente: Il prezzo in vetrina è diverso da quello al banco — lì diceva diciotto euro. Commessa: Mi scusi, c'è stato un errore. Il prezzo corretto è diciotto. Cliente: Grazie per aver corretto. Commessa: Prego, mi dispiace per la confusione.

Customer: The price in the window is different from the one at the counter — it said eighteen euros there. Assistant: I apologise, there has been an error. The correct price is eighteen. Customer: Thank you for correcting it. Assistant: You're welcome, I apologise for the confusion.

Cultural Note

Italian law (D.Lgs. 206/2005 — Codice del Consumo) requires prices to be clearly and unambiguously displayed. Price discrepancies can be reported to the local Camera di Commercio or Guardia di Finanza. Shops take this seriously as fines are significant.