支払う

• Reading: しはらう
• Romaji: shiharau
• Kanji breakdown: 支 (shi) — support, pay; 払 (fu/hara) — to pay, sweep
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.ha.ɾa.ɯ/

Meaning

To pay. To hand over money for goods, services, or debts.

A Group 1 (godan) verb conjugated with the う row. More formal than 払う alone, which can also mean 'to brush off.' 支払い (noun form) is commonly used for payment or billing. Frequently appears in contracts, invoices, and financial discussions. Takes を for the amount or item being paid.

Examples

1. 家賃は毎月25日までに支払う。 The rent must be paid by the 25th of every month.
2. クレジットカードで支払ってもいいですか。 Can I pay with a credit card?
3. 修理代を全額支払わなければならない。 I have to pay the full amount for the repair costs.

Usage Guide

Context: finance, shopping, contracts

Tone: practical

Origin & History

Compound of 支 (shi, to support/pay out) and 払う (harau, to pay/sweep away). The addition of 支 emphasizes the financial aspect of paying, distinguishing it from the broader meanings of 払う.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal