How would I say this?

Question

I have bought a wedding gift for a couple, and several people are now going to give me a contribution to it. I have said that people can give me as much money as they want for it. The gift cost £400. If I only receive £200 in contributions, the other £200 will have been paid for by me. I am writing an email to people who want to contribute, how would I phrase the part about their giving me as much as they want and then my paying the difference? I would say "The gift cost £400. Please give as much money as you want to. I will pay the difference." However, I've already bought the gift, so I've already paid the difference.

I would be grateful if you could help. Thanks.

Wilpeter · Accepted Answer

The gift has been purchased for £400 and I am asking for contributions toward it.  Please give what you are comfortable with and I will contribute the rest.

Anonymous · Answer

Thanks <img class='emoticon' style='Width:19px;Height:19px;' data-delaysrc='https://uat-englishforward-forums-backend.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Emoticons/1.gif' src='https://uat-englishforward-forums-backend.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Emoticons/1.gif' alt='Emotion: smile'/> I was hesistant to use "I will contribute" because I have already paid. If you think it's ok, I will say that then. i guess I could say "I will pay the difference.". Thanks.

Wilpeter · Answer

No, you should consider that there are two transactions.  First, the purchase of the item and that has been completed--there is nothing left to 'pay' for.  Then there is the collection of contributions, of which your own is equal to the difference between the purchase and the other people's contributions.  Your 'contribution' is (apart from the effort) this balance.

Anonymous · Answer

Thanks. I can see where I was going wrong. Would "I will contribute the difference." work?

Wilpeter · Answer

Yes.

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