Can 'regalar' mean simply to give for something in return?

Question

We've noticed a number of times when people in Spanish America used 'regalar' even though the situation is clearly one of exchange, not gift. For example, a fisherman, showing us his catch, said 'Regaleme dos dolares y regalaré Uds. una pescada.' Is 'regalar' synonymous with 'dar' in some idioms, or is this a cultural thing (phrasing the sale as an exchange of gifts rather than a business deal), like calling us 'amigos' when he's never met us before?

• Now that I asked the question, I've heard 'regalar' used a bunch of times here in Cartagena. At an office: ¿Puede regaleme su teléfono? - rob-andi Jul 10, 2011

Answer 1

In Colombia, I noticed that the verb "regalar" (to give away) is used in instances when "vender" (to sell), or "dar" (to give), seemed more appropriate.

For example, when asking for change, a colombiano would say: "Regáleme cambio por favor" whereas in another Latin country, "Deme cambio por favor" would be more common. Similarly, a colombiano might approach a vendor and say: "Regáleme dos cervezas por favor" when it is understood that he intends to pay for them, wheras in another country, one would hear either: "Deme dos cervezas..." or "Véndeme dos cervezas..."

• Welcome to the forum! - pesta Jul 3, 2011

Answer 2

Regalar can mean to sell at very cheap prices. Almost like giving something away.

Yes, this is true, but not what he is looking for here. I have actually heard in a bar here in Spain by a foreigner:

¿Me puede regalar un vaso de agua?

the poor waiter was stunned.

Certainly not used here, but....

• Haha, I most definitely have said that before, but not in Spain :( I would gladly trade the stunned look for a trip! - shakedowndav Jul 4, 2011

Answer 3

I think this is regional usage. In Mexico, for example, "Regaleme dos dolares y regalaré Uds. una pescada" would spoken with "dar" and not "regalar."

Answer 4

Regalar can mean to sell at very cheap prices. Almost like giving something away.