Final outcome
'final outcome' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for pay-off that I've seen before include "Return on an investment" , "Deserved reward" , "Result" , "Final settlement - backhander" .)
'final outcome' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is all the clue.
(Other definitions for denouement that I've seen before include "Final part of play/film/etc" , "Ending of film" , "plot must be finished" , "Final resolution (of play, film, etc)" , "Final part (of film, play)" .)