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Wordabulary

compensate

Pronunciation
Verb B1 Intermediate

Quick answer

To pay someone or make up for a loss, injury, or inconvenience.

"The airline compensated passengers for the long delay."

Synonyms and antonyms

Synonyms

reimburse pay back

Usage notes

"Compensate for" is also used more generally, meaning to balance out a weakness, as in "he compensates for his shyness with careful preparation."

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "The airline _____ passengers for the long delay."

Answer: compensate

In your own words, what does "compensate" mean?

To pay someone or make up for a loss, injury, or inconvenience.

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