payable at once

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "payable at once" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in financial contexts to indicate that a payment is due immediately. Example: "The invoice states that the total amount is payable at once to avoid any late fees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Because of cross-default provisions, default on the IANs would make other Soviet-era debt payable at once.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It also included plans to amend popular SNP policies on tuition fees and prescription charges, setting a new graduate contribution for tuition fees at £1,500, only payable once the graduate is earning more than £20,000.

The Guardian

At once.

The New Yorker

Everything happens at once".

The New York Times

Press two at once.

The New York Times

Accept at once".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Both smiled at once.

The New Yorker

Grant resigned at once".

The New York Times

YouTube it at once!

The New York Times

At once, she rallied.

The New Yorker

Many spoke at once.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "payable at once" in financial documents, ensure clarity regarding acceptable payment methods and any potential late fees.

Common error

Avoid using "payable at once" when you intend to offer payment terms. "Payable at once" signifies immediate payment, while payment terms imply a deferred payment schedule.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "payable at once" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying when a payment is due. It modifies the implied verb of payment, indicating the timing of the obligation. Ludwig provides examples showing its use in financial contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "payable at once" signifies that a payment is due immediately and without delay. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness of the phrase and provides numerous examples of its use in various contexts, although it is most common in news media and encyclopedias. When writing, ensure "payable at once" is suitable for the context, avoiding confusion with payment terms. More formal alternatives include "immediately payable", while less formal options are "payable right away". Understanding the subtle nuances of "payable at once" aids in clear and precise communication, especially in professional and financial settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

immediately payable

Emphasizes the immediacy of the payment obligation; slightly more formal.

due immediately

Focuses on the obligation being presently active; common substitute.

immediately due

Similar to "due immediately", but with a slightly different emphasis.

payable right away

Less formal, emphasizes quick payment.

immediately collectible

Focuses on the ability to collect payment right away.

forthwith payable

More archaic and formal than "payable at once".

now due

Highlights that the payment obligation is currently active.

currently payable

Emphasizes that the payment is presently required.

ripe for payment

Figurative language emphasizing the immediate availability for payment.

subject to immediate payment

Focuses on the payment being conditional on immediacy.

FAQs

How can I use "payable at once" in a sentence?

You can use "payable at once" to indicate that an amount is due for immediate payment, such as, "The invoice states that the balance is payable at once."

What's a less formal way to say "payable at once"?

Less formal alternatives include "payable right away" or "due immediately".

Is "payable at once" the same as "due on receipt"?

While both imply prompt payment, "payable at once" emphasizes the immediacy of the payment, whereas "due on receipt" ("due on receipt") indicates payment is expected upon receiving the invoice.

When should I use "payable at once" instead of "net 30"?

"Payable at once" is used when immediate payment is required. "Net 30" ("net 30") indicates that payment is due within 30 days. Use the term that accurately reflects the agreed payment terms.