pay-as-you-go

[pey-uhz-yoo-goh]

noun

1. the principle or practice of paying for goods and services at the time of purchase, rather than relying on credit.

adjective

1. of, relating to, or based on such a principle or practice.

   a pay-as-you-go budget.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pay-as-you-go¹

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Idioms and Phrases

Pay for purchases immediately instead of deferring payment. For example, Ruth and Bob had no credit cards; they believed in paying as you go. [First half of 1800s]