bargain for

British  

verb

1. (intr, preposition) to expect; anticipate (a style of behaviour, change in fortune, etc)

   he got more than he bargained for

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bargain for Idioms  

1. Also, bargain over . Negotiate about something, usually a price. For example, In open-air markets it is standard practice to bargain for the best price . [Late 1300s]

2. Also, bargain on . Expect, be prepared for, as in In planning the picnic, we hadn't bargained for bad weather , or I hadn't bargained on John's coming along . [c. 1800] For a synonym, see count on .

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Example Sentences

That implies it would be a bargain for investors who put profits first, with a similar view emerging for Amazon, with its PEG ratio of 1.9, versus Walmart at 5.76 and Costco at 5.2.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 18, 2026

This would build in higher annual raises without having to bargain for them in every contract cycle.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 31, 2026

And I have consistently paid about $1,500 in annual union dues in the belief that my union would use the money to bargain for better wages, fair working conditions and classroom improvements.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 17, 2025

What he really did not bargain for was the Old Trafford side hurtling backwards at such an alarming rate.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2025

“Lady Asha, I beg you, strike your banners and let me bargain for your life. You have used us fairly, and with honor. I will tell them so.”

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin