The verb “pay” is commonly used in various idiomatic expressions and phrasal verbs. Understanding these can enhance your English skills and make your communication more effective. Here are 20 expressions with “pay,” including their meanings and example sentences.
Expressions With PAY
1. Pay Attention
Meaning: Focus on something
Example: Pay attention to the instructions given.
2. Pay a Visit
Meaning: Go to see someone
Example: I’ll pay a visit to my friend.
3. Pay Back
Meaning: Return borrowed money
Example: I need to pay back the loan.
4. Pay Off
Meaning: Settle a debt
Example: He managed to pay off his mortgage.
5. Pay Out
Meaning: Distribute money
Example: The company will pay out dividends soon.
6. Pay for It
Meaning: Suffer consequences
Example: He’ll pay for it if he’s late.
7. Pay the Price
Meaning: Experience consequences
Example: She paid the price for her mistakes.
8. Pay Through the Nose
Meaning: Overpay
Example: We paid through the nose for tickets.
9. Pay One’s Dues
Meaning: Earn respect through hard work
Example: She paid her dues in the industry.
10. Pay in Advance
Meaning: Pay beforehand
Example: We need to pay in advance for services.
11. Pay Tribute
Meaning: Honor someone
Example: We paid tribute to the fallen heroes.
12. Pay Off (Someone)
Meaning: Bribe someone
Example: He tried to pay off the official.
13. Pay Lip Service
Meaning: Insincere agreement
Example: They only paid lip service to the cause.
14. Pay One’s Respects
Meaning: Show respect
Example: We paid our respects at the funeral.
15. Pay Dividends
Meaning: Yield good results
Example: Hard work pays dividends in the end.
16. Pay the Penalty
Meaning: Face punishment
Example: He paid the penalty for speeding.
17. Pay a Compliment
Meaning: Give praise
Example: She paid me a nice compliment today.
18. Pay Homage
Meaning: Show deep respect
Example: We paid homage to the legendary artist.
19. Pay the Bills
Meaning: Cover expenses
Example: She works hard to pay the bills.
20. Pay Off (Situation)
Meaning: Have a positive result
Example: Their strategy finally paid off well.
