On the house

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preposition phrase

Something is free, you don't need to pay for it.

The first drink at the bar is on the house.
Visual representation of "on the house" - Something is free, you don't need to pay for it.

Often appears as...

  • drinks are on the house
  • meals are on the house

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "on the house"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Hospitality Gesture

It's often used to show generosity by a business, especially in restaurants and bars.

Illustration for Hospitality Gesture
After we had dinner, the dessert was on the house as a kind gesture.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Apology Token

Sometimes used to apologize for a mistake or inconvenience caused by the service provider.

Illustration for Apology Token
Our order was late, so the manager made the appetizers on the house.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Customer Loyalty

Used to reward repeat customers or to encourage them to return.

Illustration for Customer Loyalty
Thank you for dining with us often; tonight's meal is on the house!
Visual representation of the word "On the house"

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