The word "arrears" refers to the amount of money that is owed and has not been paid by the due date. In phonetic transcription, it is written as /əˈrɪrz/, with the first syllable pronounced as "uh" and the vowel sound in the second syllable being short "i" followed by the consonant "r". The final letter "s" is silent, and the stress falls on the second syllable. It is important to spell this word correctly to avoid confusion and ensure clarity in financial dealings.
Arrears refers to the unpaid or overdue debts or payments that someone owes to another party. It typically relates to financial obligations, such as rent, bills, loans, or other forms of monetary liabilities which have not been settled within the agreed-upon timeframe. When a person or organization falls into arrears, it means they are behind on their payment schedule and have defaulted on their payment obligations.
Arrears can occur due to various reasons, including financial difficulties, forgetfulness, miscommunication, or deliberate non-compliance. The term is commonly used in the context of rental properties, where tenants fail to pay their rent on time, leading to arrears. It can also refer to outstanding amounts on credit cards, mortgages, or loans.
The consequences of being in arrears vary depending on the parties involved and the specific circumstances. In many cases, interest or penalties may be charged on overdue arrears, increasing the overall debt owed. Legal action or collection measures may also be taken by the creditor to recover the outstanding payments.
To rectify arrears, individuals or organizations typically need to make immediate payment to clear the outstanding debt. In cases of financial difficulty, negotiation or payment plans may be agreed upon to facilitate the settlement of arrears. It is important to address arrears promptly to avoid further financial strain and potential legal consequences.
A sum of money past due; what remains unpaid.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "arrears" is derived from Old French "arere", which means "behind". This Old French term comes from Latin "ad" meaning "to" and "retro" meaning "backward". Over time, "arere" developed into the word "arrear" in Middle English, which specifically referred to something being behind in payment or not being caught up. From there, it evolved into its current form "arrears", maintaining its meaning of outstanding debt or backlog in payment.