English Expression · Intermediate
pay off
bribe
Pronunciation: /peɪ ˈɒf/
Meaning
To give someone money to obtain their cooperation or silence.
Example
They paid off the guard to avoid an inspection.
They paid off the guard to avoid an inspection.
Practice tips
- Practice pay off out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.