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The term "arrears" refers specifically to the state of being behind in payments or obligations, particularly in the context of unpaid rent. When tenants fail to pay rent on time, they accumulate arrears, which signifies their outstanding balance. This term is commonly used in legal and financial discussions to indicate amounts owed that are past the due date. It serves to formalize the acknowledgment that payment is overdue, and it can have serious implications for tenants, including eviction proceedings or damage to credit scores.

The other terms mentioned have different meanings within the context of rental agreements and obligations. "Default" refers to the failure to fulfill the terms of a contract, but it encompasses a broader scope than just unpaid rent. "Liability" is a legal term indicating responsibility for something, which could include unpaid rent but is not specifically about the overdue aspect. "Debt cancellation" usually refers to the elimination of a debt, which does not apply when rent remains unpaid. Therefore, "arrears" is the most accurate descriptor for the situation of unpaid rent.