What does a borrower typically pay as a fee for borrowing money?

In a borrowing context, the fee that a borrower typically pays for the privilege of borrowing money is known as interest. This is the cost of taking out a loan and is expressed as a percentage of the principal amount borrowed. Interest is assessed over the life of the loan and can vary based on various factors, including the borrower's creditworthiness, the type of loan, and the lender's policies.

Understanding interest is crucial for borrowers, as it directly impacts the total amount they will repay over the duration of the loan. The payment structure may vary, but typically includes both principal (the amount borrowed) and interest. Thus, in this context, the focus on interest highlights its essential role in the borrowing process and the financial commitments that borrowers undertake.