payoff
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈpeɪ.ɔf//
KK: /ˈpeɪˌɔf/
adjective
Definition
A result or benefit gained from an action or decision, often after a period of effort or investment.
Example
The payoff from her hard work was a promotion at her job.
Conversation
I heard the new project has a great payoff after all the hard work.
Yeah, I’m really excited to see the results!
It's nice to know that our efforts will lead to a good payoff.
Definitely! It's always rewarding when things come together.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
rewarding
beneficial
fruitful
Antonyms
unrewarding
detrimental
futile
noun
Definition
A payoff is a final payment or reward, often given as a settlement or in return for something, such as a bribe or the conclusion of a situation.
Example
The company received a large payoff after the successful merger.
Conversation
Did you hear about the payoff from that investment?
Yeah, I heard it was quite substantial!
I didn’t expect such a big payoff after all that waiting.
Root Explanation
Payoff → It is formed from "pay" (from Old French *paier*, meaning to settle a debt or give compensation) and "off" (meaning away or completed). The word "payoff" refers to the completion of a payment or the return received from an investment or effort.
Memory Tip
Think of 'settling a debt' ('pay') and 'completing' something ('off') — that's why a payoff is the result of completing a payment or effort.
Visually Confused Words
layoff