taxpayer

Everyday

A person or business that pays taxes (money) to the government. tree →

In the lessons

In civics lessons pupils learn that taxpayers' money pays for schools, hospitals, roads, police and parks. In news it appears as «taxpayers' money» or «at the taxpayer's expense». In maths it may appear in percentage problems: a tax of 20%. Phrases: «taxpayers' money», «the taxpayer», «at the taxpayer's expense».

Examples

• Taxpayers' money pays for our school. tree →
• The new bridge cost the taxpayer millions. tree →
• Every worker is a taxpayer. tree →
• The government must spend taxpayers' money wisely. tree →
• The minister said the plan would save taxpayers money. tree →
• If a taxpayer earns £500 and pays 20% tax, she pays £100. tree →

Note

One word. Note the apostrophe: «a taxpayer's money» (one), «taxpayers' money» (many). In maths, tax is often a percentage: tax = amount × rate ÷ 100.