front money

front money

A real estate agent receives front money for a new listing.

Definition

Noun (uncountable) - Money paid in advance: "front money" refers to a sum of money paid upfront or in advance, typically as a deposit or initial payment, to secure a service, agreement, or business deal. It is often used in contexts like real estate, investments, or partnerships where a commitment is required before the full transaction is completed.

Usage Examples
  • (An upfront payment to secure the deal.)
  • (An advance payment to demonstrate sincerity.)
Advanced Usage
  • "to put up front money": to provide an initial payment as a deposit or guarantee.

    • The entrepreneur had to put up front money to secure the lease on the office space. (Provide an upfront sum as a commitment.)
  • "front money as a down payment": in real estate, "front money" can function similarly to a down payment, paid before the final purchase.

    • They used their savings as front money for the house, with the remainder financed through a mortgage. (An initial deposit toward the total cost.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Front (adj, n, v): relating to the forward or leading part; also, a person or thing that serves as a cover or disguise.

    • The company used a small shop as a front for illegal activities. (A cover or facade.)
  • Money (n): a medium of exchange in the form of coins, banknotes, or digital credits.

    • She saved money for years to afford the front money. (Currency or funds.)
Synonyms
  • Advance payment: a sum paid before the delivery of goods or services.
  • Upfront cost: an initial expense required to start a transaction.
  • Deposit: a sum placed as a guarantee or partial payment.
Related Idioms
  • Front money is the foot in the door: an idiom meaning that the initial payment provides access to a larger opportunity.

    • Without the front money, they couldn't even enter the bidding process; it was the foot in the door. (The upfront payment gave them a starting chance.)
  • Put your money where your mouth is: an idiom meaning to back up one's words with financial action, often involving front money.

    • He talked about investing, but he never put up any front money — he needs to put his money where his mouth is. (Demonstrate commitment through actual payment.)