Default on Meaning in English

expression

US

UK

Definition

To fail to pay back a loan, debt, or other required payment when it is due. Usually refers to not making payments as promised.

Usage & Nuances

This phrasal verb is formal, used mainly in legal, business, and financial contexts (e.g. 'default on a loan'). The object is usually a debt, loan, mortgage, or obligation. Do not use for general promises—it's almost always about money.

• Spanish: incumplir con (deuda) - dejar de pagar (préstamo)
• Portuguese (BR): dar calote em - não pagar (dívida)
• Portuguese (PT): incumprir (dívida) - não pagar (empréstimo)
• Chinese (Simplified): 违约（贷款/债务）
• Chinese (Traditional): 違約（貸款／債務）
• Hindi: (ऋण) चुकाने में चूक करना - भुगतान न करना
• Arabic: التقصير في سداد (الدين) - عدم دفع (القرض)
• Bengali: ঋণের কিস্তি পরিশোধ না করা - ঋণ খেলাপ করা
• Russian: не выполнить обязательства по платежу - допустить дефолт по
• Japanese: 債務不履行する
• Vietnamese: vỡ nợ - không trả được nợ
• Korean: 채무를 불이행하다 - 채무불이행 상태가 되다
• Turkish: borcunu ödememek - temerrüde düşmek
• Urdu: ادائیگی میں ناکام ہونا - قرضہ ادا نہ کرنا
• Indonesian: gagal membayar (utang) - wanprestasi

Example Sentences

If you default on your student loan, you may face serious consequences.

basic

The company defaulted on its mortgage last year.

basic

He lost his house because he defaulted on payments.

basic

If you default on your credit card, your credit score will drop.

natural

Many people worry they might default on their debts during a recession.

natural

Even a single missed payment can be considered defaulting on your loan agreement.

natural