How Do You Spell PAY DOWN?

Pronunciation: [pˈe͡ɪ dˈa͡ʊn] (IPA)

Pay down is a phrasal verb that means to reduce the amount of a debt or a loan. The IPA phonetic transcription of pay down is /peɪ daʊn/. The first syllable, "pay," is pronounced with the long "a" sound and the second syllable, "down," uses the diphthong /aʊ/, which sounds like the "ow" in "now." The word "down" is spelled as it sounds, using the letter "d" and the inflection "-own" to create the diphthong. Overall, pay down is a simple but effective phrase for those looking to reduce their debt.

PAY DOWN Meaning and Definition

1. The term "pay down" refers to the process of reducing or decreasing an outstanding debt by making consistent payments over time. It often involves making regular payments towards the principal amount owed on a loan or credit account, as opposed to solely paying the accrued interest. By doing so, individuals or organizations can gradually reduce the overall debt owed and eventually reach a point of being debt-free.

   The pay-down process typically involves making scheduled payments according to a predetermined repayment plan. These payments are specifically allocated towards reducing the principal balance, mitigating the impact of interest charges on the overall debt. The frequency and amount of payments are usually determined by the terms of the loan agreement or the credit account.

   Pay-down strategies are commonly employed for various types of debts, including mortgages, auto loans, student loans, and credit card balances. This approach allows borrowers to manage their debt more effectively, as it helps to avoid excessive interest accumulation and ultimately shortens the duration of the debt. Paying down debts is often viewed as a responsible financial practice, as it promotes financial stability and reduces the burden of long-term debt obligations.

   In summary, pay down refers to the act of gradually reducing an outstanding debt by making regular payments towards the principal amount owed, thereby minimizing the impact of interest charges and eventually achieving a debt-free status.

Common Misspellings for PAY DOWN

• paydown

Etymology of PAY DOWN

The word "pay down" is a phrasal verb that originated in English. The etymology of this phrase can be understood by examining the origins and meanings of its individual components:

1. Pay: The word "pay" comes from the Old French word "paier", which means "to pay or to satisfy a debt". The Old French word can be traced back to the Latin word "pacare", meaning "to appease or to calm". Over time, it evolved to specifically mean the act of giving money in exchange for goods or services.

2. Down: The word "down" originated from the Old English word "dūne", which means "from a higher to a lower place" or "downwards". Its use in "pay down" implies the action of reducing or decreasing something, such as a debt or a balance.

Idioms with the word PAY DOWN

• pay down sth The idiom "pay down" generally means to make a large or substantial payment towards a debt or loan, typically with the intention of reducing the outstanding balance or principal amount owed. It indicates the act of decreasing the debt by allocating money towards its repayment.
• pay down The idiom "pay down" means to reduce the amount of debt or owed money by making payments on it.