# compensating

/ˈkɑmpənˌseɪtɪŋ/ (US) · /kˈɒmpənsˌeɪtɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/compensating
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

to give someone something else to make up for a loss or a bad situation. You use this when you want to balance out a disadvantage with a benefit.

For teachers: to provide something in return for a loss, injury, or disadvantage; to make up for a deficiency. Often used in legal or financial contexts to describe the payment of damages or the provision of benefits.

## Examples

- The company is compensating the workers for their lost wages.
- The government is compensating local residents for the noise and inconvenience caused by the new airport construction.
- In many professional environments, the lack of a traditional office is often compensating for the high level of autonomy and flexible working hours offered to remote staff.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.