payment

Everyday

1. A payment is money that is paid for something. tree →
2. Payment is the act of paying: «payment by card». tree →
3. A payment can also be a reward or repayment given in return for a kindness or a service, not only money. tree →

In the lessons

In maths: an amount of money paid, often the same each week or month; equal payments; a first payment (down payment) that is different. In everyday life: paying by cash or card, rent and bills. Safety: never give payment details to strangers online.

Examples

• She makes a payment of 50 dollars each month. tree →
• After 6 payments the bike is paid off. tree →
• The first payment was 100 dollars. tree →
• How much is each payment? tree →
• The shop takes payment by card or cash. tree →
• Dad makes the rent payment on time. tree →
• Never type your parents' payment details into a game. tree →
• He got a payment for mowing the lawn. tree →
• The knowledge that we have been of service to you is ample payment. tree →

Note

Equal payments: total = payment × number of payments; each payment = total ÷ number. Trap: a first payment that is different must be counted apart. Countable: a payment, two payments; uncountable as an act («payment is due»). Safety: games or messages asking for payment details may be scams.