Pay dividends

usgb
verb

To give a lot of benefits in the future.

Studying hard will pay dividends when you take your exams.
Visual representation of "pay dividends" - To give a lot of benefits in the future

Often appears as...

  • investment will pay dividends
  • time pays dividends

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "pay dividends"
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Future Benefits

Refers to the long-term positive outcomes of actions, not immediate rewards.

Illustration for Future Benefits
Regular exercise will pay dividends for your health.
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Metaphorical Use

Often used metaphorically to mean any type of benefit, not just financial.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
Building strong friendships now will pay dividends in difficult times.
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Positive Change

Implies that positive actions now will result in positive change or advantage later.

Illustration for Positive Change
Investing in renewable energy will pay dividends for the environment.
Visual representation of the word "Pay dividends"

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