Words / B2

KOMP-ens-ayt/ˈkɒmpenseɪt/

To compensate is to give money or something else for a loss or injury, or to make up for a weakness: compensate them for the delay, compensate for a lack of experience. Make up for is everyday; repay is closer for money. Compensation is the noun. Compensate for + noun is the pattern. In speech, make up for it or pay them back is enough. Do not use it for a tiny courtesy (“a biscuit to compensate”) unless you are joking.

Meaning

To give money or something else for a loss or injury, or to make up for a weakness.

Examples

• “The company compensated them for the delay.”
• “The airline compensated passengers for the cancelled flight.”
• “Extra tutorials compensated for the missed week, but they did not replace it.”

Good to know

compensate someone for a loss; compensate for a weakness. Everyday: make up for / repay. Noun: compensation.

Near in meaning

make up for

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