Pay dividends Meaning in English
expression
Definition
If something pays dividends, it gives you good results or benefits, especially after some effort or time. It comes from finance, where 'dividends' are payments to shareholders, but it's often used about non-money situations.
Usage & Nuances
This is often used metaphorically for non-financial rewards—'hard work pays dividends'. It usually refers to something that takes time to show results. Formal or semi-formal usage; rarely used in everyday casual speech except as a set phrase.
Example Sentences
Regular reading habits can pay dividends later in life.
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Taking care of your health now will pay dividends in the future.
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Learning English early can pay dividends when looking for a job.
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Her kindness to others really pays dividends—people are always willing to help her.
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Investing time in team-building exercises can pay dividends for a company's culture.
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Don’t underestimate networking—it might not seem important now, but it can pay dividends down the road.
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