WordLens

pay

1 of 2verb
/peɪ/
Forms:pays,paying,paid,paid
1

to give someone money in exchange for goods or services

A1
  • She paid the repairman to fix her broken dishwasher.
  • Can you pay the babysitter when we get home?
  • He paid the cleaning service to tidy up the house.
  • They paid the plumber for fixing the leak in the kitchen.
  • He paid the taxi driver for the ride to the airport.
2

to experience the consequences or punishment for what one has done or believes

  • He knew he would pay for his reckless driving when he got a hefty speeding ticket.
  • His reckless actions will make him pay dearly in court.
  • Many people paid the ultimate price.
  • They had to pay the consequences for his impatience.
  • I'll make you pay for that disrespectful remark!
3

(dummy verb) used with certain nouns to indicate giving or doing something that is mentioned

  • We should pay a visit to the new neighbors to welcome them to the neighborhood.
  • During the awards ceremony, they took turns to pay compliments to the talented artists.
  • At the funeral, she paid her respects to her late uncle by placing a white rose on his casket.
  • Can you please put away your phone and pay attention to the road while driving?
  • She tried to get his opinion, but he didn't pay her any attention.
Synonyms: