owe
owe
/oʊ/
Definition
Meaning: Owe is a verb that refers to being obligated to pay or repay someone for something received, typically money or a favor.
Signification: Ce verbe désigne l'obligation de rembourser ou de rendre quelque chose à quelqu'un, généralement de l'argent ou un service.
Note: The verb owe is often used in contexts involving financial debts or moral obligations. Example: "I owe you $20 for lunch."
Word Analysis
French synonyms
» Devoir
» Être redevable
» S'obliger
» Être débiteur
Exemple: "Je dois 120 euros à mon frère."
English synonyms
» Be indebted
» Be obligated
» Have a debt
» Be liable
Example: "I owe my friend an apology for being late."
Example Dialogue
James: "Hey, did you pay for the concert tickets?"
Sophia: "Not yet. I owe you $50 for them, right?"
James: "Yeah, but no rush. Just whenever you're ready."
Sophia: "Thanks! I’ll pay you back by the weekend."
Etymology
Origin: The word owe originates from Old English āgan, meaning "to own" or "possess," which later evolved into the sense of "being obliged to pay or repay." Over time, its meaning shifted to encompass financial and moral obligations. The connection to ownership reflects the idea of having something in one’s possession that rightfully belongs to someone else.
Audience
The verb "owe" is widely recognised across all registers of English, from casual conversations to formal contexts. It is a fundamental term often used in financial, legal, and everyday settings.
When to use: Use "owe" to describe situations where someone has an obligation to pay money, return a favor, or offer gratitude. For example: "I owe you an explanation for my behavior," or "They still owe the bank a large sum of money."
Dictionary Meaning
Here's an official definition of owe by The Cambridge Dictionary
The Cambridge Dictionary says that it means "to need to pay or give something to someone because they have lent money to you, or in exchange for something they have done for you." Then it drops two example sentences, one of which is: "I owe Janet $50."
News Snippet
"However, a staff member at Eriksons yesterday confirmed the authenticity of the letter. She said the consulate had still not yet paid them and they were fast losing patience.
“It is a fact that the Lesotho consulate owes us money for fuel and we have the records to prove it.
“You can quote me on this because it is common knowledge that those people have developed the notoriety of owing their suppliers money. "
Read the full article at Lesotho Times
Extra! Extra!
For a fun and engaging exploration of our word of the day, nosey or nosyt, watch the following videos.
Video Lesson One
Video Lesson Two
WordReference
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Common Idioms and Expressions
Owing to: A formal way to say "because of" or "due to."
Example: The flight was delayed owing to bad weather conditions.
Owe someone big time: To feel greatly indebted to someone for their help or kindness.
Example: Thanks for covering my shift—I owe you big time!
To what do I owe this honour? A polite or humorous way to ask why someone is giving you special attention or doing something kind for you.
Example: "You’re here to visit me? To what do I owe this honour?"
I owe you one: A casual way to express gratitude and indicate that you are willing to return a favor in the future.
Example: "Thanks for helping me with the project—I owe you one!"
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