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to pay
01
to give someone money in exchange for goods or services
1.1
(of a job, investment, etc.) to provide someone with a certain amount of money
Example
She's looking for jobs that pay at least $20 per hour.
They invested in stocks that paid substantial returns.
The tech industry is known for jobs that pay well.
Are there any part-time jobs that pay decently?
I want to find a job that pays a higher salary.
1.2
to give the amount of money that is required to be transferred because of a debt, bill, etc.
Example
She needs to pay the rent by the end of the month.
Don't forget to pay your credit card bill before the due date.
It's essential to pay your mortgage regularly to avoid penalties.
He realized he had to pay the fine for parking in a no-parking zone.
1.3
to be profitable or bring in some advantage, particularly of a business or activity
Example
Crime rarely pays in the long run.
It pays to be organized with your tasks.
Laziness doesn't pay.
It can pay to seek professional advice for your finances.
It pays to invest time in learning new skills that can benefit your career.
02
to experience the consequences or punishment for what one has done or believes
03
(dummy verb) used with certain nouns to indicate giving or doing something that is mentioned
Pay
Example
Customers have to pay an additional charge for express shipping.
He paid the cleaning service to tidy up the house.
She paid the repairman to fix her broken dishwasher.
Can you pay the babysitter when we get home?
I need to pay the bills before the due date to avoid late fees.