Show me the money: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Show me the money” mean?

"Show me the money" means to demand or expect payment.

What context can I use the in?

Example

After completing the project, I told my client, 'Show me the money!'

Example

The landlord was getting impatient and said, 'Show me the money or you'll be evicted.'

Example

The salesperson confidently approached the customer and said, 'If you want this product, you'll have to show me the money.

Is “Show me the money” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Show me the money” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Show me the money” effectively in context?

You can use "Show me the money" to demand or expect payment from someone. It is often used in a confident and assertive manner. For example, if you have completed a project for a client and want to be paid, you might say, 'After completing the project, I told my client, 'Show me the money!''

• 1. Business

  The landlord was getting impatient and said, 'Show me the money or you'll be evicted.'

• 2. Sales

  The salesperson confidently approached the customer and said, 'If you want this product, you'll have to show me the money.'

• 3. Negotiation

  During a negotiation, one party may use the phrase 'Show me the money' to assert their expectation of payment.

Similar phrases to “Show me the money”:

Pay up

To demand payment

Example

After completing the project, I told my client, 'Pay up!'

Put your money where your mouth is

To back up your words with action or financial commitment

Example

If you think you can do it better, then put your money where your mouth is.

Fork over

To hand over or pay a sum of money

Example

The customer was reluctant to pay, but eventually forked over the money.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Show me the money” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Show me the money" is from the movie 'Jerry Maguire' released in 1996. In the film, the character played by Tom Cruise says this line to demand payment from his client.

Is “Show me the money” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Show me the money" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation, especially in business and financial contexts. It is often used to assertively demand payment or to express the expectation of immediate payment.

What tone does “Show me the money” have?

"Show me the money" conveys a tone of assertiveness and confidence. It is often used in situations where there is a need for immediate payment or when someone wants to emphasize the importance of receiving payment.

Can “Show me the money” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Show me the money" is more commonly used in informal settings, such as casual conversations or business negotiations. It may not be suitable for very formal or professional situations.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The landlord was getting impatient and said, 'Show me the money or you'll be evicted.'' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "show me the money"!' to imply the expectation of payment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• demand payment
• expect payment
• ask for money
• request payment

Antonyms

• donate
• give away for free
• offer something for nothing