Accrue
Channel: English Unpacked
Date: 2024-01-12

The word "accrue" is a verb that means to gradually accumulate or increase over time. It is often used in financial or legal contexts, but can also be applied to other situations where something is gained or accumulated gradually.
Here are a few examples to help illustrate the meaning of "accrue":
1. Interest on a bank account: When you deposit money into a savings account, the bank pays you interest on that money. The interest "accrues" over time, meaning it gradually increases the balance of your account. For example, if you have $1,000 in a savings account that earns 5% interest annually, after one year, you will have $1,050. The $50 is the interest that has accrued.
2. Vacation days: Many companies offer employees a certain number of vacation days per year. These vacation days "accrue" over time, meaning they gradually accumulate as you work. For example, if you are entitled to 10 vacation days per year, you may accrue 0.83 days per month. After 12 months, you will have accumulated the full 10 days.
3. Legal obligations: In some legal cases, such as lawsuits or contracts, interest or penalties may "accrue" if a payment is not made on time. For instance, if you owe someone money and fail to pay it by the agreed-upon date, interest may begin to accrue, increasing the amount you owe over time. Similarly, if a contract specifies a penalty for late completion of a project, the penalty may accrue until the project is finished.
4. Experience or knowledge: Skills, expertise, and knowledge can also "accrue" over time. For example, someone who has been working in a particular field for several years will have accrued a wealth of experience and knowledge in that area. This means they have gradually gained expertise through their work and exposure to different situations.
In summary, "accrue" is a verb that describes the gradual accumulation or increase of something over time. It can be used in various contexts, such as finance, employment, legal matters, and personal growth.