payable - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
payable Word Meanings
- able to be paid
- due for payment
- often refers to debts or invoices
payable Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
payable Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpeɪəbl/
US
/ˈpeɪəbl/
payable Word Etymology
(pay + -able) from Latin 'pagare' meaning 'to pay' → Old French 'payable' → English. Imagine a stack of unpaid bills waiting to be settled; 'payable' signals they are due.
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 InputReal Context
Payable is an adjective used mainly in business and finance to describe debts, invoices, or obligations that must be paid. In accounting, you will see terms like accounts payable, which refers to money your company owes. A payable item is not yet paid, but it is due; you might see payment terms such as 'net 30 payable' indicating the due date. The word emphasizes the obligation to settle money and is common in contracts, billing statements, and vendor agreements. It contrasts with receivable, which is money you are owed. Remember, payable refers to the obligation, not the act of paying itself.
Usage Reminders
- Keep payable for obligations only; never describe the act of paying. Use with nouns like 'amount', 'invoice', or 'debt'. Distinguish payable from 'paid' and 'payment'. Check whether the term is 'payable to' someone or 'payable by' a deadline. In contracts, terms like 'payable on delivery' appear frequently. Remember that payable focuses on the obligation, not the payment moment.
Common Misconceptions
- Payable means you have already paid something.
- Payable is the same as payable on demand.
- All payments are described as payable, even if there is no obligation.
- Payable refers to the act of paying rather than the obligation.
- Receivable and payable are always used for people, not money.
Thinking Differences
In English, payable often emphasizes formal obligations in business documents; learners may default to 'pay' or 'paid' and stumble over phrases like 'payable to' vs 'paid by'.
Learning Tips
- memorize that payable describes an obligation, not the act of paying
- pair with nouns like invoice, debt, or amount to discuss due money
- differentiate with 'receivable' to discuss money you will receive
- watch for phrases like 'payable to' and 'payable by' a deadline
- contrast with 'paid' to show completion of payment
- review contract language to see how due dates are stated
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'payable'?
A.A type of fruit
B.Due for payment
C.A measurement unit
D.A style of painting
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'payable' correctly?
A.The flower is payable in the garden.
B.They enjoyed a payable meal at the restaurant.
C.The invoice is payable within thirty days.
D.He told her it was payable to see the movie.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'payable'?
A.Comfortable
B.Visible
C.Due
D.Creative
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'payable'?
A.Receivable
B.Insufficient
C.Covered
D.Barren
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where something is payable?
A.Every month, I receive a salary that is due to me.
B.At the bookstore, I found books that are payable but not useful.
C.My friend has a bill that needs paying soon.
D.I made a deal that is payable and exciting.
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