payments - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
payments Word Meanings
- the act of paying money for goods or services
- a sum of money paid
- a reward or compensation for services
payments Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
payments Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpeɪmənt/
US
/ˈpeɪmənt/
payments 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 definition of the word 'payments'?
A.Money paid for goods or services
B.An emotional response to happiness
C.A type of food that is delivered
D.A legal document for ownership
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'payments' correctly?
A.She was happy about her payments being received on time.
B.The cat made several payments to the tree.
C.Payments are for handing out flyers during the event.
D.He decided to make his payments after dinner.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'payments'?
A.Receipts
B.Efforts
C.Documents
D.Connections
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'payments'?
A.Investments
B.Withdrawals
C.Credits
D.Profits
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario involving transactions?
A.People are often frustrated when they miss a deadline.
B.Consumers use credits instead of cash at the store.
C.Many workers await their salaries at the end of the month.
D.Insurance companies issue weekly reports on customer needs.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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