Allocation: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when talking about distributing resources, money, or time to particular purposes or sections. It is often used in a formal or business context.

• The allocation of funds to each department has been completed.
• The project manager oversaw the allocation of tasks among the team members.

Use this word when talking in general terms about spreading out items, goods, or resources, often over a wide area. It applies to both business (e.g., products) and casual contexts.

• The distribution of food and supplies to the affected areas was efficient.
• Netflix has an effective distribution strategy for its digital content.

This word is most often used in educational or work settings to describe giving someone a specific task, duty, or responsibility.

• The teacher gave the students an assignment to complete over the weekend.
• Her new job assignment is to manage the social media accounts for the company.

This word is best used in legal, formal, or technical contexts where the division and assignment of something (like costs, resources, or time) must be fair and balanced.

• The apportionment of voting rights is a key issue in the new legislation.
• The apportionment of property tax among residents was a topic of heated discussion.

Used in a formal or business context when distributing resources or responsibilities.

• The budget allocation for marketing has increased this year
• The allocation of tasks among team members must be clear

Typically used in educational or professional settings when referring to tasks, jobs, or duties given to individuals.

• The teacher gave the students a challenging assignment
• He received a tough assignment at work that required extra hours

Commonly used in contexts related to giving out portions of something, often money, land, or space, typically in a formal or organized manner.

• The community garden has several allotments available for the upcoming season
• There will be an allotment of funds for each department

Commonly used when pre-booking or holding something for future use, such as tables at restaurants, hotel rooms, or tickets.

• We need to make a dinner reservation for this weekend
• She checked the reservation for the hotel online to confirm the details

Used when referring to the distribution of resources, time, or tasks among various projects or people. It is commonly used in business, economics, and project management.

• The allocation of funds to different departments will be discussed in the next meeting
• Proper allocation of tasks can improve team efficiency

Used when assigning a specific status, title, or role to someone or something. It is often used in organizational settings or formal contexts.

• She received the designation of team leader after her excellent performance
• The area has been given a special designation as a protected wildlife reserve

Used when setting something aside for a specific purpose or future use, particularly funds or resources. It carries a slightly more informal tone compared to 'allocation' but is still widely used in financial contexts.

• A portion of the budget has been earmarked for community development projects
• The company is earmarking funds for upgrading its technology infrastructure