pay off

pay off  {v. phr.}

1. Платить заработную плату.

The men were paid off just before quitting time, the last day before the holiday.

2. Оплачивать работу и освобождаться от обязанностей.

When the building was completed he paid off the laborers.

3. Ударять, причинять боль тому, кто был с вами не прав (отплатить); мстить.

When Bob tripped Dick, Dick paid Bob off by punching him in the nose.

Syn.: PAY BACK.

4.  {informal} Возвращать затраты; получать прибыль.

At first Mr. Harrison lost money on his investments, but finally one paid off.

5.  {informal} Оказываться удачным, полезным или стоящим.

Ben's friendship with the old man who lived beside him paid off in pleasant hours and broadened interests.