Earmarking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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earmarking

[ˈɪəˌmɑːkɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

government finance

The act of setting aside funds for a specific purpose or project, typically done by a government or organization. Earmarking ensures that the allocated funds are used only for the intended purpose.

Synonyms

allocation, appropriation, designating.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
earmarking	Similar to 'earmarking,' usually emphasizing the specific purpose for which resources are set aside. Often used in planning or budgeting contexts. They are earmarking a significant part of the budget for research and development. Earmarking funds for scholarships is a priority for the university.
allocation	Often used in an organizational or managerial context to describe the distribution of resources or funds to various departments, projects, or individuals. The allocation of funds was discussed in the board meeting. They need to improve their allocation of resources to maximize efficiency.
appropriation	Commonly used in formal or legal contexts, especially in government or institutional settings, to describe the official setting aside of money or resources for particular use. It can sometimes imply a formal or legislative process. The legislature approved the appropriation of funds to the disaster relief program. The appropriation of the budget for the next fiscal year is being debated.
designating	Used when appointing or assigning something for a specific role or purpose. It can be used in various contexts, from informal to formal situations. She is designating a portion of her salary for savings. He was designated as the team leader for the project.

Examples of usage

Many governments use earmarking to fund infrastructure projects.
Earmarking of funds for healthcare has become a common practice.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

politics

To designate or set aside funds for a specific purpose, often in a budget or financial plan. Earmarking can help ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and transparently.

Synonyms

allocate, reserve, set aside.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
earmarking	Often used in financial or budgetary contexts to specify funds or resources for a particular purpose. The government is earmarking $2 million for school renovations Our project manager is earmarking extra time for quality checks
allocate	Commonly used when dividing or assigning resources, time, or money to various tasks or departments. It often implies a planned and systematic distribution. The company will allocate additional funding for research and development We're allocating a portion of the budget to marketing efforts
set aside	Used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate saving or keeping something separate for a particular purpose. It has a broader usage than 'reserve'. She set aside an hour each day for reading The council decided to set aside money for the new community center
reserve	Typically used when keeping something specifically for future use or a special purpose; often implies withholding it from immediate use. We will reserve some seats for latecomers The company decided to reserve funds for emergencies

Examples of usage

The committee agreed to earmark a portion of the budget for education.
She earmarked a certain amount for charity donations.

Translations

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

Origin of 'earmarking'

The term 'earmarking' originated in the 19th century, derived from the practice of physically marking the ears of livestock to indicate ownership. Over time, the term evolved to refer to the practice of setting aside funds for specific purposes in government finance and budgeting.

See also: ear, earbob, earful, earmark, earring, earringing, earworm.