# payoff

/ˈpeɪˌɔf/ (US) · /pˈeɪɒf/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/payoff
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the positive result or reward you get at the end of a long process or effort.

For teachers: 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.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in both financial and narrative contexts; often paired with the verb 'to provide' or 'to yield'.

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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.