Earmarked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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earmarked

[ˈɪəˌmɑːrk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

budget allocation

To designate or set aside funds for a specific purpose or project, often as part of a budgeting process. Earmarking ensures that the allocated funds cannot be used for other purposes.

Synonyms

allocate, designate, earmark, set aside.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
earmarked	This word is often used in financial and budgeting contexts to indicate money or resources that have been reserved for a specific purpose. The funds were earmarked for the new community center
allocate	This term is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings to indicate the distribution of resources, time, or tasks to specific purposes or people. The manager will allocate the tasks among the team members The government decided to allocate more funds to education
designate	Typically used in formal settings to officially assign someone to a role or to identify something for a specific purpose. She has been designated as the new team leader We've designated this room as a quiet space
earmark	Similar to 'earmarked', but often used as a verb to point out the action of reserving funds or resources for a particular purpose. We need to earmark some money for unexpected expenses
set aside	This phrase can be used in casual or informal settings to indicate reserving time, money, or resources for a specific use or purpose. Let's set aside some time to discuss the project They've set aside funds for a vacation

Examples of usage

The government earmarked $1 million for the construction of a new school.
The funds were earmarked for research and development purposes.
The council has earmarked a portion of the budget for community projects.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

budgeting

Funds that have been set aside for a specific purpose or project. Earmarked funds are usually allocated for a particular use and cannot be reallocated without specific authorization.

Synonyms

allocated funds, designated funds, set-aside funds.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
earmarked	Utilized mostly in formal and financial settings when discussing funds reserved for a specific purpose. It implies a definite intention behind the reservation. The government has earmarked funds for the new school project. A portion of the budget is earmarked for healthcare improvements.
allocated funds	Generally used in official or business contexts to describe the process of distribution of resources according to a specific plan. This term implies a structured and planned approach. The company allocated funds for new equipment. Funds were allocated to different departments based on their needs.
designated funds	Mostly seen in formal or organizational settings, referring to resources that have been specifically named or marked for a particular use. It suggests a clear assignment of purpose. These are designated funds for community development. Designated funds must be used solely for their intended projects.
set-aside funds	Typically used in both informal and formal settings to indicate money saved or reserved for a future need or contingency. It suggests preparation and prudence. We've set aside funds for emergency repairs. Set-aside funds for unexpected expenses are crucial for any business.

Examples of usage

The earmarked funds for the new library were used to purchase books and furniture.
The budget includes earmarks for infrastructure improvements.
Most of the donations were earmarked for disaster relief efforts.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Finance

In budgeting, money that is earmarked cannot be spent on anything else. It’s like putting your allowance aside just for a special toy.
Governments often earmark funds for specific programs, ensuring that money is used exactly where it's needed most.

Education

In the context of education, earmarked funds can refer to scholarships that are reserved for certain students, like those with specific talents or needs.
Teacher grants can also be earmarked for special projects, ensuring that resources are allocated for improving student learning.

Politics

In legislation, earmarks refer to provisions that direct funds to a specific project within a broader bill, often debated for their transparency and effectiveness.
Earmarked funds can sometimes lead to political negotiations, as different parties strive to secure resources for their local projects.

Cultural References

In literature, when a character has their future ‘earmarked’ for great things, it symbolizes fate or destiny guiding their path.
Many artists may earmark a portion of their earnings for charitable causes, showcasing a commitment to social responsibility.

Origin of 'earmarked'

Main points about word origin

The term 'earmarked' originally comes from livestock farming, where farmers would mark their animals' ears to show ownership or intended purpose.
The 'ear' in earmarked made its way into English around the 19th century, linking it to the idea of marking something for a reason.

The term 'earmark' originated in the world of livestock farming, where animals were identified by notches or marks on their ears to show ownership. Over time, the term evolved to refer to setting aside funds for a specific purpose, as in 'earmarking' money for a particular project or use.