debts - Master This Word
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debts Word Meanings
- an amount of money owed to someone
- a state of owing money or obligation
- a moral or social obligation
debts Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
debts Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɛt/
US
/dɛt/
debts Word Etymology
debt = from Latin 'debitum' (thing owed), from 'de-' (down, away) + 'habere' (to have). Originated from Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a person who is burdened by money they owe, weighed down by the weight of coins as they navigate their life.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I grip a wallet and move my fingers over the money, feeling the weight of debt settle in my palm. I tilt my head, change posture, and decide to set a plan in motion, one small action after another. It feels like pulling a taut rope, and I push against the pull of expenses while I adjust my steps. As the plan stays in motion, debt becomes a map of choices, not a label, and I keep my focus on what I can control.
Real Context
Debt is more than a sum of money owed; it shapes decisions, budgeting, and even social status in some contexts. In English, people distinguish between debt as a liability and the act of borrowing, often with nuance about repayment plans and interest. You’ll hear phrases like 'in debt,' 'debt-free,' 'debt consolidation,' and 'good debt' versus 'bad debt.' It can be a personal burden or a public issue, such as student loans or national deficits. Learners often confuse debt with simply owing money, and mix up 'owe' with 'to' or 'owe back.' Collocations such as debt repayment, debt management, and debt-to-income ratio require careful preposition and adjective use.
Usage Reminders
- Understand debt as a liability; distinguish it from loan and owe; use debt-with phrases correctly; note collocations; avoid mixing debt with debt collection; practice with real-life contexts
Common Misconceptions
- Debt always means you are poor
- Debt and loan are the same thing
- Owe is the same as debt
- Debt can be ignored without consequences
- All debt is bad and should be avoided
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice with real-life budgets and debt scenarios
- Learn common collocations (debt repayment, debt relief)
- Differentiate debt from loan and owe
- Watch for prepositions with debt phrases
- Study phrases about good debt vs bad debt
- Use a debt glossary with examples
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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