Synonyms for

Debt

Verb / det / Another word for debt — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Debt is the amount of money that someone owes to another person or organization.

Synonyms & similar words

liability obligation indebtedness arrears bill debit score tab due account charge deficit dues liabilities outstanding

Synonyms by register

Formal

obligation liability indebtedness arrears

Informal

tab score what you owe

Literary

burden shackle

Antonyms

asset credit possession ownership wealth capital

Common collocations

  • debt collection
  • debt relief
  • debt consolidation
  • debt crisis
  • national debt
  • personal debt
  • pay off debt
  • in debt

Word family

noun debt
verb indebt
adjective indebted

Usage note

While 'debt' is a general term, 'indebtedness' is often used in more formal or financial contexts. Be careful not to confuse 'debt' with 'debit', which refers to money taken out of an account.

Example sentences

  1. 1. John owes a debt to the bank for his car loan.
  2. 2. I have a debt to pay off from my credit card.
  3. 3. The country's debt has increased significantly in the last year.
  4. 4. It's important to pay off your debts on time to avoid interest charges.
  5. 5. The company is in debt and may need to file for bankruptcy.

Quotes

  • 1. 'Neither a borrower nor a lender be; For loan oft loses both itself and friend, And borrowing dulls the edge of husbandry.' - William Shakespeare
  • 2. 'Debt is the slavery of the free.' - Publilius Syrus
  • 3. 'A man in debt is so far a slave.' - Ralph Waldo Emerson

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