Allocate

Definition

Allocate is a verb that means to distribute resources, tasks, or responsibilities to specific people, places, or purposes. It involves assigning or apportioning something according to a plan or specific requirement.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæləˌkeɪt/
• Respelling: AL-uh-kayt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæləkeɪt/
• Respelling: AL-uh-kayt

The pronunciation of "allocate" is similar in both American and British English, with slight variations in accent.

Etymology

The word "allocate" originates from the Latin word "allocare," where "ad-" means "to" and "locare" means "place." It was introduced into English in the early 17th century with a similar meaning related to placing or assigning resources.

Derivatives

• Allocation (noun)
• Allocator (noun)
• Allocated (verb, past tense)
• Allocating (verb, present participle)
• Reallocate (verb)

Synonyms

• Distribute
• Assign
• Apportion

Antonyms

• Withhold
• Retain
• Conserve

Usage

The verb "allocate" is often used in contexts involving the distribution of resources, such as money, time, or tasks. For example, "The manager decided to allocate more funds to the marketing department," or "She allocated her time wisely to complete all assignments."

Related Terms

• Budget: A financial plan for allocating resources.
• Designation: The act of assigning a role or purpose.
• Distribution: The process of dividing and giving out resources.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To distribute or assign resources, roles, or responsibilities: Refers to the act of giving a portion of resources or tasks to someone or something based on a specific plan.
  • Example: "The government allocated funds for disaster relief."
• To set aside for a particular purpose: Involves reserving or designating resources for a specific goal or requirement.
  • Example: "The company allocated time for training new employees."