to pay it

USAGE SUMMARY

"to pay it" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used as the infinitive form of the verb "to pay" followed by the object pronoun "it." This phrase indicates the action of paying for something, usually money or a debt, and is often used in conversations related to finances or transactions. Example: "I have to pay my rent tomorrow, would you mind reminding me to do it?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"You don't have to pay it.

The New York Times - Travel

And please remember to pay it back.

Independent

Their priority is to pay it back.

The Economist

I want to pay it off'".

Independent

"I can't afford to pay it.

The New York Times

"Now we have to pay it back".

The New York Times

Why would anyone want to pay it?

The Economist

Very few people have to pay it.

Columbia University

She was forced to pay it herself.

Harvard University

I am willing to pay it".

The New York Times

"I wanted to pay it forward".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations: "to pay it back" often refers to repaying a debt, while "to pay it forward" implies doing good for someone else in response to a kindness received.

Common error

Avoid using "to pay it" in contexts where "to pay it forward" is intended. "To pay it" implies a direct obligation or debt, while "to pay it forward" suggests an act of kindness without expectation of direct return.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to pay it" functions as an infinitive verb phrase, indicating the action of fulfilling an obligation or settling a debt. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage in diverse contexts, from repaying loans to covering expenses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to pay it" is a common and grammatically sound expression signifying the act of settling a debt or fulfilling an obligation. As Ludwig indicates, it finds frequent use in news, academic, and business contexts. While versatile, it's crucial to differentiate it from "to pay it forward", which denotes a non-reciprocal act of kindness. Therefore, depending on whether one is referring to a debt or an act of altruism, one should employ the appropriate expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to settle the debt

Focuses specifically on resolving a financial obligation.

to clear the balance

Emphasizes reducing an outstanding amount to zero.

to fulfill the obligation

Emphasizes completing a duty or commitment.

to make restitution

Highlights restoring something lost or damaged.

to discharge the liability

Highlights the formal removal of a debt or responsibility.

to return the favor

Shifts the focus to reciprocating a kindness or service.

to honor the commitment

Stresses the importance of keeping a promise or agreement.

to meet the dues

Focuses on satisfying a required payment or contribution.

to reciprocate the gesture

Similar to "return the favor" but emphasizes the act of reciprocity.

to pass it on

Suggests continuing a cycle of generosity or assistance.

FAQs

What does "to pay it forward" mean?

The phrase "to pay it forward" describes the act of responding to someone's kindness to you by being kind to someone else. Instead of paying the original person back, you "pay it forward" by helping someone new.

How can I use "to pay it forward" in a sentence?

You can use "to pay it forward" in a sentence like this: "She was so grateful for the help she received that she decided "to pay it forward" by volunteering at the homeless shelter".

What's the difference between "to pay it back" and "to pay it forward"?

"To pay it back" means to return something (often money) to the person you received it from. "To pay it forward", on the other hand, means to do a good deed for someone else, inspired by a good deed that you received.

Is it always appropriate to use "to pay it forward"?

No, "to pay it forward" is specifically used for acts of kindness or assistance. It would not be appropriate in situations involving formal debts or contractual obligations where "to settle the debt" or "to fulfill the obligation" would be more fitting.