Be in somebody’s debt Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Gratitude Indicates strong feelings of thankfulness; more emotional than just saying 'thank you'. You found my lost puppy; I am in your debt! Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal Doesn't mean you owe money, but you feel a moral obligation to return the favor. After you covered my shift, I'm truly in your debt. Pro Tip 3/3Personal Bonds Often used to express a personal sense of indebtedness, not just in professional contexts. You've been such a good friend to me; I am in your debt.