English Phrase of the Day

Definitions

English > English
down payment
1. n. (legal, finance) A payment representing a fraction of the price of something being purchased, made to secure the right to continue making payments towards that purchase.
2. n. (by extension) Any initial commitment signifying an intention to carry out a larger future commitment, even though no legal rights or obligations are secured.
Analysis
down		©
1. n. (especially southern England) A hill, especially a chalk hill; rolling grassland
We went for a walk over the downs.
The North Downs are a ridge of chalk hills in south east England.
2. n. (usually plural) A field, especially one used for horse racing.
3. n. (mostly) A tract of poor, sandy, undulating or hilly land near the sea, covered with fine turf which serves chiefly for the grazing of sheep.
payment		©
1. n. The act of paying.
2. n. A sum of money paid in exchange for goods or services.

Example Sentences

Take it as a down payment.

Review previous phrases