French Phrase
Prêt à payer ?
Meaning
This phrase is a direct way to ask if someone is prepared to settle a bill or finalize a purchase. It combines the adjective 'prêt' (ready) with the infinitive verb 'payer' (to pay).
When to use
It is most commonly used in restaurants, cafes, or shops when checking if a companion or customer is ready to conclude a transaction. It is informal to semi-formal in tone.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Prêtàpayer?
Prêt
An adjective meaning 'ready' that agrees with the subject; use 'prête' for feminine subjects.
à payer
The preposition 'à' links 'prêt' to the infinitive 'payer' to indicate what one is ready to do.
🗨In Conversation
J'ai fini mon café.
I have finished my coffee.
Prêt à payer ?
Ready to pay?
✕Common Mistakes
Prêt pour payer ?
In French, the adjective 'prêt' is followed by the preposition 'à' when followed by an action.
Es-tu prêt payer ?
You must include the preposition 'à' between the adjective and the infinitive verb.
↔Alternatives
On règle ?
Shall we settle up?
Tu es prêt à passer à la caisse ?
Are you ready to go to the checkout?
Cultural Tip
In French dining culture, the bill is almost never brought to the table unless requested. While 'Prêt à payer ?' is fine between friends, a server is more likely to ask 'Vous voulez régler ?' or simply wait for your signal.