voucher
VOW-cher
/ˈvaʊ.tʃər/
A small printed piece of paper that entitles the holder to a discount or that may be exchanged for goods or services.
Often used as a gift or a specific promotional tool with a set monetary value.
The story behind the word. In medieval law, to 'vouch' was to call upon someone to act as a witness or to defend your right to property. A 'voucher' was originally a person who did this, later becoming the document that 'vouched' for a payment or credit.
Word relationships
- coupon: Coupons are usually for specific products; vouchers often represent a broader credit or service.
- token: A token is often a physical object or a small symbol of value.
- invoice: An invoice is a request for payment, whereas a voucher is a form of payment.
Commonly confused with
- rebate: A voucher is used at the time of purchase; a rebate is money returned after the purchase.
Word family
- vouch (verb): To assert or confirm as a result of one's own experience.
Collocations
- gift voucher
- redeem a voucher
- travel voucher
Example sentences
- "The airline gave us a travel voucher as compensation for the delayed flight." A customer service interaction.
- "Present this voucher at the checkout to receive 20% off your meal." A marketing promotion.
Memory hook
The paper 'vouches' for your right to the discount. Proof of credit.
When not to use
Do not confuse with a 'receipt', which is proof of payment already made.
Fun facts
- In the UK, 'vouchers' are commonly used for school meals and childcare subsidies.
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.