# pick up the tab

**Pronunciation:** /pɪk ʌp ðə tæb/ · PIK UP THUH TAB

**CEFR level:** B2

**Part of speech:** idiom

## Meaning

To pay for a bill or expense, especially one incurred by others.

## Examples

- The company agreed to pick up the tab for our travel expenses.
- Don't worry about the drinks; I'll pick up the tab tonight.
- It was generous of him to pick up the tab for the entire group.

## Synonyms

- pay — The most direct and neutral way to describe giving money for goods or services.
- cover — Often used in professional or formal contexts to mean paying for an expense.
- foot the bill — An idiom specifically used for paying a large or unexpected expense.
- settle up — Refers to paying what is owed to clear a debt or account.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/pick%20up%20the%20tab

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