The word “allocate” is commonly used in many different fields, from finance to project management. It is a term that describes the act of assigning something, such as resources or funds, to a specific purpose or task. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of allocate, as well as its origins, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
To allocate means to set aside or assign a certain amount of something for a particular purpose. It can refer to resources, funds, time, or any other tangible or intangible asset. The act of allocating is often done in order to ensure that resources are used efficiently and effectively.
Origin
The word “allocate” comes from the Latin word “allocare,” which means “to place, to assign.” The term first appeared in English in the 17th century and has since become a common term in many different fields.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, allocate means “to distribute (resources or duties) for a particular purpose.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “to apportion for a specific purpose or to particular persons or things.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines allocate as “to give something to someone as their share of a total amount, for them to use in a particular way.”
Associations
The term allocate is often associated with project management, budgeting, and resource planning. It is also commonly used in finance, where it refers to the allocation of funds to different investments or assets.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of allocate include assign, designate, earmark, distribute, apportion, and allot.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of allocate include withhold, retain, hoard, and keep.
The same root words
Some words that share the same root as allocate include location, local, and locality.
Example Sentences
- The manager decided to allocate more resources to the marketing department.
- The government allocated funds for the construction of a new hospital.
- The project manager had to allocate tasks to different team members.
- The committee decided to allocate a larger budget for research and development.
- The company had to allocate more time to training new employees.