How to Pronounce "pay the piper"
expression
ˈpeɪ/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈpaɪpɝ
PAY thuh PY-per
pˈeɪ/ /ðə, ði/ /pˈaɪpɐ
PAY thuh PY-puh
Definition
To face the negative consequences of your actions or decisions, especially after enjoying benefits earlier or avoiding responsibility.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈpeɪ/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈpaɪpɝ
British English
pˈeɪ/ /ðə, ði/ /pˈaɪpɐ
Simplified Pronunciation
US
PAY thuh PY-per
UK
PAY thuh PY-puh
Listen in Context
If you break the rules, you will have to pay the piper.
We spent too much, and now it's time to pay the piper.
Everyone must pay the piper for their mistakes.
After years of ignoring the problem, the company finally had to pay the piper.