owe

[oh] / oʊ /

VERB

have an obligation

Synonyms

STRONGEST

incur

STRONG

lost

WEAK

be beholden be bound be contracted be in arrears be in debt be indebted be into one for be obligated be under obligation behind feel bound get on credit have borrowed in hock on the tab ought to run up a bill

Antonyms

WEAK

pay resolve settle

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“I owe it all to the ’94 World Cup.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 7, 2026

Would I owe capital-gains tax based on the increase in value since my father gifted me the stock?

From MarketWatch • Jun. 1, 2026

“That would really be a tremendous sign, and I think those countries owe it to us,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026

While the owner will owe income taxes on the amount converted, they’ll be in a lifetime-low tax bracket.

From Barron's • May 28, 2026

“And so in a way, I have you to thank. I’ll always owe you a debt of gratitude.”

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse