Definition

Adjective 1. Still to be paid; owed as a debt. This describes money or a payment that is due and has not yet been settled. Example: "There is a large sum *owing on the car loan."* 2. Attributable to; caused by. (Used almost exclusively in the phrase "owing to"). This indicates the reason or cause for something.

Usage and Examples

• As an adjective meaning "owed":
  • "Please settle any amounts owing by the end of the month."
  • "The invoice shows the balance owing is $150."
• In the phrase "owing to" meaning "because of":
  • "The flight was delayed owing to bad weather."
  • "Owing to his hard work, he received a promotion."

Advanced Usage and Notes

• "Owing to" vs. "Due to": In formal English, a traditional distinction is made. "Owing to" is often used adverbially to mean "because of," while "due to" is used adjectivally after a form of the verb "to be" (e.g., "The cancellation was rain"). However, in modern usage, "due to" is frequently used in both contexts, and "owing to" is considered slightly more formal.
• Position in a sentence: "Owing to" can typically begin a sentence or clause.
  • "Owing to unforeseen circumstances, the event is canceled."
  • "The event is canceled owing to unforeseen circumstances."

Variants and Related Words

• Owe (verb): To be under obligation to pay or repay. the bank money."*
• Owed (adjective): Describing something that is due. payment was late."*

Synonyms

• Outstanding: Remaining to be paid.
• Due: Expected or required at a certain time. today."*
• Payable: Required to be paid. immediately."*
• Unpaid: Not yet paid.
• (For "owing to"): Because of, on account of, as a result of.

Antonyms

• Paid
• Settled
• Cleared

Common Phrases and Collocations

• Amount owing: The specific sum of money that is due.
  • "Please check the amount owing on your statement."
• Money owing: Money that is owed.
  • "He tried to recover the money owing to him."
• Debt owing: A formal term for an owed sum.
  • "The company declared the debt owing as uncollectible."

Adjective

1. owed as a debt
   • outstanding bills
   • the amount still owed
   • undischarged debts