A1verbhigh_frequency_chunk

Pay

UK /["/peɪ/","/peɪz/","/peɪd/","/ˈpeɪɪŋ/"]/US /["/peɪ/","/peɪz/","/peɪd/","/ˈpeɪɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to give somebody money for work, goods, services, etc.

In simple words: To give money for something.

Examples

  • I need to pay for my groceries.
  • Can you pay the bill when we go out to dinner?
  • He always pays his debts on time.
  • You can pay with cash or credit card.
  • They pay attention to the teacher in class.
  • If you pay close attention, you will understand better.

Usage notes

Use 'pay' when giving money in a transaction. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, such as paying bills, friends, or in shops. Avoid using it in very casual contexts where alternatives like 'chip in' might be more suitable.

Grammar pattern

pay + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'pay day' — imagine receiving money on payday and needing to pay bills.

Collocations

  • handsomely
  • well
  • dearly
  • have to
  • must
  • be able to
  • for
  • to
  • ability to pay
  • handsomely
  • well
  • dearly
  • have to
  • must
  • be able to
  • for
  • to
  • ability to pay

Synonyms

  • remunerate
  • compensate
  • settle
  • reimburse
  • disburse

Antonyms

  • receive
  • collect

Common mistakes

  • 'Pay at' vs 'pay for' confusion: Using 'pay at' incorrectly when referring to the cost of an item.
  • Using 'payed' instead of 'paid': The past tense is 'paid', not 'payed'.
  • Incorrect preposition: Saying 'pay to' when you should say 'pay for'.