Apportioned Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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apportioned

[əˈpɔːrʃənd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

distribution of shares

Apportioned refers to the act of dividing or allocating something into parts or shares. It typically implies that the distribution is done according to a specific plan or need. Apportionment is commonly used in contexts like budgeting, resource allocation, and voting systems where fairness and proportionality are key metrics. The process ensures that each party receives their appropriate share based on predetermined criteria.

Synonyms

allocated, assigned, distributed, divided.

Examples of usage

  • The funds were apportioned among various departments.
  • The seats in the assembly are apportioned based on population.
  • Costs will be apportioned evenly among all members.
  • The land was apportioned to each family according to their needs.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal terms, apportioning often relates to the distribution of assets among heirs or in bankruptcy cases.
  • Courts may apportion damages in lawsuits, ensuring that liability is fairly shared among parties involved.
  • The principle of apportioned costs can apply in situations like taxes or service fees, where charges are distributed according to usage.

Psychology

  • Apportioning tasks can improve group dynamics, leading to more effective collaboration among team members.
  • The concept is linked to equity theory, where fair distribution of resources affects motivation and satisfaction.
  • Fair division, a branch of game theory, explores how to apportion resources in a way that feels just to all parties involved.

Education

  • In educational contexts, teachers often apportion assignments among students to encourage individual responsibility and workload management.
  • Apportioning resources in schools can mean budgeting financial support equally to ensure all students get access to necessary materials.
  • Collaborative learning often depends on apportioning roles within group projects, enhancing teamwork and skill development.

Culture

  • Cultural practices around sharing food often involve apportioned servings, highlighting communal values.
  • In many societies, celebrating events such as weddings or festivals includes apportioned gifts or contributions from attendees.
  • The idea of apportioned shares can be seen in various cultural games or activities where resources are divided among participants.

Origin of 'apportioned'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'apportio', meaning to divide into parts.
  • It has been used since the early 15th century to describe the action of sharing or distributing.
  • Related words include 'portion' and 'allocate', tying it to the idea of dividing something into smaller, manageable parts.

The term 'apportioned' originates from the Latin word 'portio', meaning 'a part or share'. It evolved through Old French into Middle English, adopting its current meaning related to distribution. The prefix 'ap-' indicates a direction toward or addition, while 'portion' connects directly to dividing something into parts. The usage of 'apportioned' became more prevalent during discussions about equity and fairness in resource management and governance, particularly with regard to legislative representation or fiscal responsibility. Over time, it has become a standard term in legal, financial, and political contexts, emphasizing the importance of fair distribution.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,603, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.