repay - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
repay Word Meanings
- to return money to someone
- to compensate someone for a favor
- to pay back a debt
repay Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
repay Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈpeɪ/
US
/rɪˈpeɪ/
repay Word Etymology
re- = back + pay = to give money; Historical origin: Latin 'repayare' → Old French 'repaier' → English. Memory image: Imagine handing back a borrowed book and saying 'thank you' for the trust.
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
Repay is a versatile verb that centers on returning value owed to someone. In everyday use you might repay borrowed money, clear a debt, or settle a loan with interest. It also covers compensating someone for a favor or a kindness, as in repaying a favor by helping later. In formal contexts you might say repay a loan or repay the debt in full; in casual speech people often say pay back instead of repay after the noun. The notion of reciprocity is key: repayment acknowledges the obligation and restores balance between people.
Usage Reminders
- - Use repay when describing returning money or compensating a favor.
- - Say repay a loan or repay the debt; you can also say repay in full with interest.
- - In casual speech, many people say pay back instead of repay.
- - Conjugate as repay, repaid, repaying with clear tense and subject.
- - When money is owed, specify the amount and deadline if possible.
Common Misconceptions
- Do not use repay with non monetary items unless discussing a compensation or favor.
- Avoid saying repay back; the phrase is redundant.
- Confuse repay with return; return is for objects, repay is for debt or favors.
- Mix up repay with pay back in formal writing.
- Neglect to specify amount or deadline when discussing a loan.
Thinking Differences
Repay emphasizes obligation and reciprocity; learners often think of it only as returning cash, not as restoring balance after a favor or duty.
Learning Tips
- Notice the common collocations with repay (loan, debt, favor).
- Practice with both formal and casual contexts to hear the two variants: repay and pay back.
- When writing, prefer repay in formal documents and pay back in casual notes.
- Conjugate accurately: repay, repaid, repaying, will repay.
- Always state who is repaid and the amount or time if relevant.
- Compare with other verbs like return and compensate to deepen nuance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'repay' correctly?
A.He never repay his debts.
B.She always makes sure to repay any favors she receives.
C.I don't want to repay this book.
D.We repay the bus to the city.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'repay'?
A.Pay back
B.Repay
C.Take away
D.Lend
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite word for 'repay'?
A.Give
B.Oblige
C.Reimburse
D.Fulfill
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would you need to repay someone?
A.Doing a favor for a neighbor
B.Returning a borrowed book
C.Thanking someone for a gift
D.Borrowing money from a friend
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