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owe

verb B2 Neutral

Meaning

To owe means to be under obligation to pay or repay money or a favor to someone.
💡 A common mistake is using "owe to" instead of just "owe."

Example Sentences

The company owes a debt to several international suppliers .

Word in Context

After her bicycle broke down on the way to work , Maria called her friend Tom to ask for help . Tom came with tools and some cash , and she promised she would repay him soon because she knew she would owe him for both the money and the time he had spent helping . They agreed that she would bring the money the following evening , and Tom suggested a quick coffee so they could talk while he waited . Maria felt relieved that the problem was solved and decided to be more careful with her bike so she would not need another favor .

Common Phrases

owe money owe a debt owe someone a favor

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