Pay the piper

Meaning

The idiom "pay the piper" means to get what you want or need, but pay a price for it. It can also mean that someone else will pay the cost of your actions or decisions.

Usage

• If you want to succeed, you'll have to pay the piper and put in the work.
• The company is paying the piper for its poor management, with low employee morale and high turnover rates.
• She paid the piper for her mistakes by losing her job.
• You can't have your cake and eat it too; you'll have to pay the piper for your actions.
• The government is paying the piper for its debt, with cuts in social programs and increased taxes on citizens.

Roots and History

The idiom "pay the piper" dates back to the 17th century, where it was used to describe the payment of a piper or musician after playing at a celebration or event. Over time, the phrase evolved to mean that someone had to pay the cost for something, including their own mistakes or actions. The idiom has been used in literature and poetry throughout history, with examples dating back to Shakespeare's plays.

Synonyms in English

• Reap what you sow
• Get what you give
• Pay your dues
• Make amends
• Face the consequences

Synonyms in other languages

• French: Paiement du devoir (payment of debt)
• Spanish: Prendas por cuenta (to pay for something)
• German: Hinterbliebenes Konto (remaining account)
• Italian: Dovere di pagamento (payment due)
• Portuguese: Conta pendente (pending bill)

Similar Idioms

• pep talk

• pain in the neck

• pushing up daisies