payment - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
payment Word Meanings
- the act of paying money for goods or services
- a sum of money paid
- a reward or compensation for services
payment Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
payment Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpeɪmənt/
US
/ˈpeɪmənt/
payment Word Etymology
(pay + ment) - The term originated from the Latin 'pacare' meaning 'to settle or satisfy'; it evolved through Old French before entering English. Imagine the moment when a merchant receives coins in exchange for products, fulfilling a promise of goods with satisfaction.
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 reach for my card, palm steady, and slide it toward the reader. The screen lights up and the numbers move as the total changes under my quiet gaze. I adjust my grip, decide what to pay, and set my mind on finishing the moment with care. That small push of effort turns the payment into a real action I can trust in daily life.
Real Context
Payment is a broad term describing the act of giving money to settle a debt or purchase, the money itself that is exchanged, and more broadly, any compensation for services. In everyday use, people refer to making a payment, paying a bill, or receiving a payment as part of a job or contract. The concept spans many forms, from cash and card to digital transfers or installments, and it often involves receipts, invoices, and terms of payment. Learners should pay attention to collocations like 'make a payment', 'payment due', 'payment method', and to differences between 'pay' as a verb and 'payment' as a noun.
Usage Reminders
- - Make a payment on time to avoid late fees.
- - Use common phrases like 'payment due' and 'payment method'.
- - Remember 'pay' is a verb and 'payment' is a noun.
- - Keep receipts and track payment deadlines.
- - Differentiate between paying someone and receiving a payment.
Common Misconceptions
- Payment is always cash; it can be card, online transfer, or other methods.
- Payment is the same as buying something; it is the money exchanged, not the act of purchasing.
- Pay and payment are interchangeable; pay is a verb, payment is a noun.
- Payment due date means the item will arrive on that day; it usually just means you should pay by that date.
- Payment only refers to goods; it can also be compensation for services.
Thinking Differences
In English, payment is a flexible noun used for money and for the act of paying; learners often mix it with 'pay' as a verb or read it only as money rather than a transaction concept.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: make a payment, payment due, payment method.
- Differentiate between pay (verb) and payment (noun).
- Know that payment can be cash, card, or digital transfer.
- Keep receipts and invoices for record-keeping.
- Practice polite phrases for requesting or confirming payments.
- Review contexts: invoice, bill, salary, and contract payments.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'payment'?
A.The process of teaching someone new skills.
B.A type of dance popular in the 1980s.
C.The act of giving money in exchange for goods or services.
D.A small animal often kept as a pet.
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that correctly uses the word 'payment'.
A.She made a payment for her new car yesterday.
B.His payment was a very interesting book.
C.They payment went to the store to buy groceries.
D.We payment to the concert for tickets.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'payment'?
A.Transaction
B.Bargain
C.Invitation
D.Celebration
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'payment'?
A.Debt
B.Profit
C.Gift
D.Expense
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life situation where someone might discuss a payment?
A.I need to buy groceries this week.
B.The restaurant bill must be settled by the end of the night.
C.They received a payment for the services they offered.
D.She decided to take a loan for her studies.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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