in debt

in debt

1. Literally, owing one money. A noun or pronoun can be used between "in" and "debt." That's what loan sharks do—they get you in debt and then squeeze you dry. You're going to be in debt if you keep up this freewheeling spending. I just paid off my student loans and have no desire to get in debt like that again.
2. Owing one gratitude (or, more rarely, some form of compensation, such as a favor) for their help. A noun or pronoun can be used between "in" and "debt." Helen's the one who got me a job at that great company, so I'm forever in her debt. I'm forever in debt to the teachers who convinced me to finish high school. I'm so relieved you found our dog! Thank you, we're forever in your debt!
See also: debt
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

in debt

having debts; having much debt; owing money. Mary is deeply in debt. I am in debt to the bank for my car loan.
See also: debt
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
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