pick up the tab

(verb) to pay the bill for someone

Example Sentences:

Waiter: And here’s your bill. Have a good night, everybody!
Bob: I’m going to pick up the tab tonight, guys. I just got paid and am feeling generous!
Guys: Thanks, Bob!

My father picked up the tab for my schoolbooks while I was studying at University.

Husband: The Smith family wants to go out to dinner with us tonight.
Wife: I don’t want to go.
Husband: Why not?
Wife: Because, they’re greedy and selfish.
Husband: Why do you say that?
Wife: Because they never pay, and we’re always picking up the tab.
Husband: Yeah, you’re right! Let’s go out with the Wilson family instead.
Wife: Why?
Husband: Because they’re rich. Maybe they’ll pick up the tab for us!
Wife: I love you!

Media:

Similar idioms:

1. pick up the check
2. on one
3. pay off
4. in the doghouse
5. pick up line
6. open up a can of worms
7. check in with
8. pick up line
9. out of the frying pan and into the fire
10. give and take