payback Definition
- 1revenge or retribution
- 2a return on an investment or expenditure
- 3a reward or punishment that is deserved
Using payback: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "payback" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He waited years to get his payback against his former business partner.
Example
The company's payback on their investment was higher than expected.
Example
She received payback for her hard work in the form of a promotion.
Example
The criminal received payback for his actions when he was caught and sentenced to prison.
payback Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for payback
- retaliation
- reprisal
- compensation
- return
- reward
- deserts
- revenge
- vengeance
Antonyms for payback
Phrases with payback
Example
After years of mistreating his employees, it was finally payback time for the cruel boss.
the length of time it takes for an investment to generate enough cash flow to cover its initial cost
Example
The payback period for the new equipment is estimated to be two years.
a phrase used to express satisfaction or vindication when someone who has wronged you receives their comeuppance
Example
After years of being bullied, she finally stood up for herself and thought to herself, 'payback is a bitch.'
Summary: payback in Brief
The term 'payback' [ˈpeɪbæk] refers to revenge or retribution, as well as a return on investment or expenditure. It can also mean a deserved reward or punishment. Examples include 'He waited years to get his payback against his former business partner,' and 'The company's payback on their investment was higher than expected.' Phrases like 'payback time' and 'payback is a bitch' add emphasis to the concept of consequences.