bill

word

/ˈbɪɫ/
bil
/bˈɪl/
bil

Definition

'Bill' can mean a statement of money owed (like in a restaurant or for utilities), a proposal for a new law, a paper banknote, or the beak of a bird.

Usage & Nuances

Very common word with many meanings. In the US, "bill" usually means a paper note (money), but in the UK, "note" is more common for money, and "bill" mainly means an invoice or restaurant check. In legal contexts, "bill" refers to proposed laws. Do not confuse with "check"—in the US, ask for the "check" (restaurant), but in the UK, request the "bill".

Example Sentences

Can I have the bill, please?

basic

He paid the electricity bill yesterday.

basic

The new bill was introduced in Parliament.

basic

He found a twenty-dollar bill in his pocket.

natural

The duck used its bill to catch food in the water.

natural

We split the bill at dinner last night.

natural