Foot the bill
English Idiom
Meaning: To take responsibility for covering the cost of something, often when the expense is significant or unexpected. It implies that one person or entity will pay for the entire amount.
Origin: The idiom "Foot the bill" originates from the 19th-century British practice where an itemized bill was "footed" or signed at the bottom by the person responsible for payment. The word "foot" refers to the bottom of a document, where the total amount due is usually written. Over time, this phrase came to mean assuming responsibility for paying the entire bill. It emphasizes the act of covering costs, often unexpectedly or reluctantly, and underscores the responsibility associated with settling expenses.
Examples
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Despite the budget cuts, the company decided to foot the bill for the annual holiday party.
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When the group went out for dinner, John generously offered to foot the bill, surprising everyone.
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The government had to foot the bill for the extensive flood damage repairs.
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After the car accident, the insurance company refused to foot the bill for the entire repair cost.
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She always ends up footing the bill for her younger siblings' education expenses.
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Due to the unexpected medical emergency, they had to foot the bill for the hospital stay.
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The nonprofit organization relies on donations to foot the bill for its community projects.
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During the family reunion, Grandma insisted on footing the bill for the catering service.
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The tech startup had to foot the bill for the new office equipment after securing the investment.
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When the project went over budget, the contractor agreed to foot the bill for the additional expenses.
