pay one's way

pay (one's) way

To pay for oneself or another person; to contribute one's or someone else's portion of the cost (of something). I appreciate the offer, but I can pay my way! His parents paid his way all through college, so it's no wonder he has no concept of working to earn his own keep.See also: pay, way

pay one's way

1. Also, pay one's own way. Pay in full for one's expenses, as in She paid her way through college by working in the library. 2. pay someone's way. Pay someone's expenses, as in Dad offered to pay my way if I went to Spain with him. See also: pay, way