Usage Note
Dépens is used almost exclusively in two fixed expressions: aux dépens de quelqu'un ('at someone's expense') and condamné aux dépens ('ordered to pay costs') in a legal context. It is always plural. Do not confuse with dépense (f, 'expenditure'), which is the ordinary word for spending.
Examples
"Il a appris cela à ses dépens."
Natural Translation
He learned that at his own expense.
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