payback time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "payback time" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to a moment for revenge or settling a score. Example: "After all the hard work, it was finally payback time for the team." Alternative expressions include "time for revenge" and "time to settle the score."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's payback time.

The New York Times

Payback time for 1982?

The Guardian - Sport

Maybe it's payback time".

The New York Times

This is payback time.

The Guardian

Now it is payback time.

The Economist

Call it payback time.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This is unquestionably payback time.

The Guardian

So this was payback time.

The New York Times - Sports

So maybe it's payback time.

The New York Times

"So now it's payback time".

The New York Times

Payback time for Manchester United.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "payback time" when you want to emphasize a moment of deserved retribution or revenge, particularly after a period of waiting or anticipation.

Common error

Avoid using "payback time" when referring to the simple return of money or goods; reserve it for situations involving a sense of justice or revenge. For simple repayment, use phrases like "repayment schedule" or "return the favor" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "payback time" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a predicate nominative or appositive. It signifies a moment when someone receives retribution or revenge for past actions. Ludwig provides numerous examples where this phrase emphasizes a sense of deserved consequence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "payback time" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression signifying a moment of retribution or revenge. According to Ludwig, it's commonly found in news and media contexts, reflecting its role in describing situations where consequences are being delivered. While generally neutral to informal in tone, it's essential to distinguish its use from simple repayment scenarios. To ensure clarity and appropriateness in writing, consider the nuances highlighted and the alternative phrases offered. Based on Ludwig AI, "payback time" is versatile, but mindful usage is critical for conveying the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

time for revenge

Focuses specifically on the retaliatory aspect.

settling the score

Emphasizes balancing a past wrong.

time to even the score

Similar to settling the score, but more explicitly about evening things out.

day of reckoning

Implies a more formal or significant moment of justice.

retribution is at hand

Highlights the imminence of deserved punishment.

just deserts

Focuses on receiving what one deserves, often in a negative context.

what goes around comes around

Expresses the cyclical nature of actions and consequences.

reaping what you sow

Highlights the consequences of one's actions.

the chickens have come home to roost

Suggests past actions are now causing problems.

karma's a bitch

Informal and emphasizes negative consequences.

FAQs

How can I use "payback time" in a sentence?

You can use "payback time" to describe a moment of retribution or revenge. For example: "After years of mistreatment, it was finally "payback time" for the underdogs."

What's a more formal way to say "payback time"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "the "day of reckoning"" or "retribution is at hand". These alternatives convey a similar meaning with a heightened sense of gravity.

Is "payback time" appropriate for professional communication?

While "payback time" is widely understood, it's generally too informal for professional settings. Opt for phrases that emphasize accountability or consequences rather than revenge, such as "time to face the consequences" or "accountability is due".

What's the difference between "payback time" and "repayment time"?

"Payback time" implies a sense of revenge or retribution, while "repayment time" simply refers to the scheduled return of money or debt. Use "payback time" when there's an element of settling a score, not just fulfilling a financial obligation.