Word
payoff
Phoneticspay·off, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈpeɪˌɔf/
UK/pˈeɪɒf/
Countable noun
Definition
n. the positive result or reward you get at the end of a long process or effort.
n. the final outcome or reward resulting from a previous investment of time, effort, or money. Often refers to the resolution of a narrative or the return on a financial venture.
Examples
“The payoff for all that hard work was a promotion.”
“After months of slow character development, the movie's final scene provides a satisfying emotional payoff for the audience.”
“While the initial investment in renewable energy is substantial, the long-term payoff includes both reduced operational costs and a significant decrease in the facility's carbon footprint.”
Examples
simple
“The payoff for all that hard work was a promotion.”
contextual
“After months of slow character development, the movie's final scene provides a satisfying emotional payoff for the audience.”
complex
“While the initial investment in renewable energy is substantial, the long-term payoff includes both reduced operational costs and a significant decrease in the facility's carbon footprint.”
Usage
Commonly used in both financial and narrative contexts; often paired with the verb 'to provide' or 'to yield'.
Real-World Examples
“However, the two groups that could reward each other earned much higher payoffs than those that could only punish, or those that could do neither.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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