eager to repay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "eager to repay" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a strong desire or willingness to return a favor or pay back a debt. Example: "After receiving so much help during my difficult times, I am eager to repay my friends for their kindness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

He was eager to repay his debt.

The New Yorker

JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs, which are also eager to repay TARP funds, have gone through similar exercises.

The New York Times

Banks have grown eager to repay TARP money as quickly as possible, to rid themselves of compensation caps and other restrictions that they complain has hurt their competitiveness.

The New York Times

The 28-year-old former Valencia player's season has been badly hit by a thigh injury, with Thursday's substitute appearance only his second appearance in two months, and he is eager to repay Laudrup for the faith he has shown during the winger's recovery.

BBC

But I want to say one thing that's very important: I know that many institutions are eager to repay the government as a sign of strength.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Both said they were eager to return.

The New York Times

He is eager to rejoin the lineup.

The New York Times - Sports

Its talented exiles are eager to return.

The Economist

The Arpaio pardon was a clear sign that not only is Trump willing to countenance the trampling of citizens' constitutional rights and our constitutional system of checks and balances, he is especially eager to do so to repay a campaign supporter and fellow traveler in his long-held campaign against immigrants.

The Washington Post

Simonini still has student loans to repay.

Los Angeles Times

A transaction disguised as a party, the annual all-star extravaganza pulls together quick performances by pop acts eager (or at least willing) to repay the powerful Top 40 radio station that helps turn their songs into hits.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "eager to repay", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being repaid, whether it's a financial debt, a favor, or a show of faith.

Common error

Avoid using "eager to repay" in contexts where the 'repayment' is abstract or not clearly defined. The phrase implies a tangible or specific return, not just general gratitude or goodwill.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "eager to repay" functions as a verb phrase expressing a strong willingness or desire to return something, whether it's a debt, a favor, or faith shown. This is supported by Ludwig AI's analysis and the examples provided, which often involve institutions or individuals wanting to reciprocate.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "eager to repay" is a grammatically correct verb phrase used to express a strong desire to return something, be it a financial obligation, a favor, or trust. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, its frequency is relatively rare, primarily appearing in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, clarity is key, ensuring the context makes it clear what is being repaid. Alternatives like "keen to reciprocate" or "anxious to give back" offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feel obliged to repay

Expresses a sense of duty to return something.

keen to reciprocate

Focuses on returning a favor or action, rather than specifically repaying a debt.

motivated to reimburse

Focuses specifically on the financial aspect of returning money.

anxious to give back

Emphasizes a desire to contribute positively after receiving something.

driven to requite

Emphasizes a strong internal push to return a favor or action.

willing to compensate

Highlights the readiness to provide something in return for loss or service.

prompted to remunerate

Highlights the act of paying for services rendered.

desirous of recompensing

A more formal way to express wanting to provide compensation for something.

inclined to indemnify

Focuses on protecting someone from loss or damage by providing compensation.

want to make amends

Highlights the desire to correct a wrong or injury.

FAQs

How can I use "eager to repay" in a sentence?

You can use "eager to repay" to express a strong desire to return a favor, debt, or show of faith. For example, "After receiving so much support, I am "eager to repay" their kindness".

What's a good alternative to "eager to repay"?

Alternatives include "keen to reciprocate", "anxious to give back", or "feel obliged to repay", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "eager to pay back" instead of "eager to repay"?

Yes, "eager to pay back" is a valid alternative. While "repay" often implies a more formal or significant obligation, "pay back" is generally understood and acceptable in most contexts. Both convey a willingness to return something owed.

What's the difference between "eager to repay a debt" and "eager to return a favor"?

"Eager to repay a debt" specifically refers to a financial or material obligation, while "eager to return a favor" implies reciprocating an act of kindness or assistance. The first focuses on a quantifiable return, and the second on a reciprocal action.