neutral
very common
Usage
Native Mandarin speakers commonly use '支付' when discussing transactions in shops, restaurants, or online platforms. For instance, during a meal at a restaurant, one might say, '请给我支付账单' (Please give me the bill for payment). It's also frequently encountered in e-commerce discussions, such as when checking out on a website.
Synonyms & nuances
'支付' is often used interchangeably with '付钱' (fù qián), which means 'to pay money.' However, '支付' carries a more formal tone and is frequently associated with official transactions, while '付钱' is more casual, used in everyday conversations.
Culture
'支付' reflects the digital age's rapid evolution in China, where cashless payments have become the norm through apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay. The character '支' means 'to support' or 'to extend,' and '付' means 'to give' or 'to pay,' illustrating the concept of extending support through financial transactions in everyday life.
FAQ
Q.What does 支付 mean in English?
'支付' translates to 'payment' in English, referring to the act of settling a financial obligation, whether it's for goods, services, or bills.
Q.How do you use 支付 in a sentence?
You can use '支付' in sentences like '我可以用支付宝支付吗?' (Can I pay with Alipay?). This illustrates its practical application in daily transactions.
Q.What are common mistakes when using 支付?
A common mistake is confusing '支付' with '付款' (fù kuǎn), which also means 'to pay.' While both are correct, '支付' is used in more formal or technical contexts, while '付款' is more casual.