Arrears: meaning, definitions and examples

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arrears

 

[ əˈrɪəz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

financial

The state of being behind in the payment of debts or obligations.

Synonyms

debts, outstanding balance, overdue payments

Examples of usage

  • He was unable to clear his arrears on the loan.
  • The company faced legal action due to outstanding arrears.
Context #2 | Noun

legal

The state of being behind in the performance of a duty or task.

Synonyms

default, delinquency, neglect

Examples of usage

  • He was in arrears with his rent for several months.
  • The project fell into arrears due to lack of resources.

Translations

Translations of the word "arrears" in other languages:

🇵🇹 atrasos

🇮🇳 बकाया

🇩🇪 Rückstände

🇮🇩 tunggakan

🇺🇦 заборгованість

🇵🇱 zaległości

🇯🇵 滞納

🇫🇷 arriérés

🇪🇸 atrasos

🇹🇷 gecikmeler

🇰🇷 연체

🇸🇦 متأخرات

🇨🇿 nedoplatky

🇸🇰 pohľadávky

🇨🇳 欠款

🇸🇮 zaostanki

🇮🇸 eftirstöðvar

🇰🇿 берешек

🇬🇪 დაგვიანებული ვალდებულებები

🇦🇿 gecikmələr

🇲🇽 atrasos

Etymology

The word 'arrears' originated from Middle English 'arere', which means 'in arrears'. It has been used since the 16th century to refer to the state of being behind in payments or obligations. The term is commonly used in financial and legal contexts to describe overdue debts, payments, or duties. Over the years, 'arrears' has maintained its relevance in discussing financial matters and remains a key term in accounting and law.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,627 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.