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general::
Phrase(s): out-of-pocket expenses
Fig. the actual amount of money spent. (Alludes to the money one person pays while doing something on someone else’s behalf. One is usually paid back this money.) • My out-of-pocket expenses for the party were nearly $175. • My employer usually reimburses all out-of-pocket expenses for a business trip.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs