I owe you Meaning and Definition
I Owe You
Pronunciation
/ajaxkju/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A sum of money or a favor that one person expects to receive from another in return for goods or services provided.
Examples
- After I lent him $20, he told me ‘I owe you one’.
- She mentioned that she still owes me $50 for the favor I did for her.
- The coffee shop owner expects customers to pay what they owe when they collect their orders.
- He promised to pay back the money he borrowed from me after he got his paycheck.
Synonyms
- Debt
- Repayment
- Indebtedness
Antonyms
- Gift
- Payment
Etymology
The phrase ‘I owe you’ originates from ancient civilizations, where it was used to acknowledge a debt or obligation.
Usage Notes
The phrase is often used informally, and it’s essential to clarify the terms of the obligation, including the amount owed and the expected repayment method.
Cultural References
The phrase has been featured in various forms of media, including literature, cinema, and music.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
‘You owe me one’ is an idiomatic expression that means I deserve something in return for a favor.