C1verb2K

Allocate

UK /["/ˈæləkeɪt/","/ˈæləkeɪts/","/ˈæləkeɪtɪd/","/ˈæləkeɪtɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈæləkeɪt/","/ˈæləkeɪts/","/ˈæləkeɪtɪd/","/ˈæləkeɪtɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to give something officially to somebody/something for a particular purpose

In simple words: to give or assign something for a specific purpose

Examples

  • A large sum has been allocated for buying new books for the library.
  • They intend to allocate more places to mature students this year.
  • More resources are being allocated to the project.
  • The project is being allocated more resources.
  • Millions have been allocated to improve students' performance.
  • More money should be allocated for famine relief.
  • More funds will now be allocated to charitable organizations.

Usage notes

Use 'allocate' when discussing resources, time, or responsibilities. It is appropriate in business and formal contexts, but less common in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

allocate + object + (to + recipient)

Memory hint

Think of 'allocate' as 'a-lot-of-cate' — imagine giving a lot of cake to specific friends at a party.

Collocations

  • randomly
  • efficiently
  • according to
  • by
  • for

Synonyms

  • assign
  • apportion
  • distribute
  • designate
  • allot

Antonyms

  • misallocate
  • withhold
  • keep

Common mistakes

  • 'Allocate' is often confused with 'distribute' which is more general.
  • Learners may incorrectly use 'allocate' without specifying what is being allocated.
  • Some may mistake 'allocate' for 'collect' but they mean different things.