Definition
to face the consequences of one's actions
Examples
1) After procrastinating for weeks, Susie had to pay the piper staying up all
night to finish her project.
2) After consistently ignoring cybersecurity measures, the company had to pay
the piper when a significant data breach occurred.
Etymology
The idiom has roots in the medieval practice of paying pipers for their
services, emphasizing the inevitable need to settle debts.
Synonyms
reap what you sow, bear the brunt
- englishdaily626.com [edited]
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To be fair we also say "he who pays the piper calls the tune."