Is it rude to ask someone how much something costs that they own?

Question

If it is, why?

Answer 1

Yes, it is very bad manners. However, if it is a very close friend, you might possibly ask, depending on the circumstances.

Answer 2

It kind of is because it's similar to asking a person how much money they have or make. If they have a purse that cost $800 then you would assume that the person is rich or else they are stupid and spent all their bill money on a bag. It's almost like asking a person what 'class' they fit into. It's also weird to ask a stranger because they might not trust you and if it's an expensive item, they may be afraid you'll want to steal it from them. You are putting them on the spot.
On the other hand, it should be ok because sometimes I see something that someone has that I like and I want to know how much it was to see if I can afford one too. If I ask someone something like that, I usually approach it in a general way, I don't just blurt out, 'How much was that?'. I try to say something like, 'I really like that, was that expensive?' and I make a 'face' showing that I hope it wasn't. Then I let them answer however they want. They usually say yes or no and then I'll say, 'because I really want one but I can't spend more than $200' and usually a friendly conversation about prices will start. Most of the time, the person will end up admitting how much they spent.

Usually, when they see that you are interested in buying one and not just being nosy, they are more likely to tell you how much something costs.

Answer 3

once in a while to ask me is okk but dont asked me about how much everything cost from my head to toe .. that is totally rude

Answer 4

I don't think so. Some people are sensitive when they spend a lot (or even a little) on something...I think it shows you are interested in what they have, so they should be proud!

Answer 5

i dont really think it is. i guess it might depend on the item