© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

pay

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /peɪ/

KK: /peɪ/

adjective
Definition

Relating to money that is given or received for work or services.


Example

The pay rate for this job is higher than average.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that new pay parking lot near the mall?
Sloth B
Yeah, I noticed it! It seems so convenient, but I hate paying.
Sloth A
I know, right? Sometimes it's annoying to find a pay spot when you're in a hurry.
Sloth B
True, but at least it keeps the area organized.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
chargeable
valuable
costly
Antonyms
free
worthless
invaluable
noun
Definition

Money that is given to someone for work they have done or for services they have provided.


Example

The pay for this job is higher than I expected.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about the new job opening at the cafe?
Sloth B
Yeah, I heard the pay is pretty good for part-time work.
Sloth A
That sounds promising! I could use some extra cash.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To give money to someone for goods or services, or to settle a debt or obligation.


Example

I need to pay the rent by the end of the month.


Tense Forms

Past: paid

Past Participle: paid


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you remember to pay the rent this month?
Sloth B
Yeah, I paid it last week, so we're all set.
Sloth A
That's a relief! I always worry about missing the deadline.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Pay → The word 'pay' originates from Old French 'paier' (meaning to pay or to satisfy), which in turn comes from Latin 'pacare' (meaning to pacify or to appease). The word 'pay' means to give money in exchange for goods or services, satisfying a debt or obligation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'satisfying' a debt or obligation when you 'pay' for something, as the root connects to the idea of appeasing or pacifying.

Visually Confused Words
spay
pray
play
pavy
paty
paly
pa
ay
Is this page helpful?
Totally! A little extra pay would definitely help with my bills.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
salary
wages
compensation
Antonyms
debt
penalty
loss
No need to worry; I make sure to keep track of it.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
settle
remunerate
compensate
Antonyms
default
withhold
deny