allowance
uh-LOW-unss
/əˈlaʊəns/
A sum of money allotted or granted to a person on a regular basis for a particular purpose.
An allowance is money given before you spend it, for a specific category like housing, travel, or meals.
The story behind the word. The word comes from the Old French 'alouer,' which meant both 'to place' and 'to approve.' An allowance is essentially money that has been 'approved' or 'placed' aside for a specific use.
Word relationships
- grant: A grant is usually for a specific project; an allowance is for recurring personal needs.
- stipend: A stipend is for general living; an allowance is usually for a specific cost like 'travel'.
Commonly confused with
- reimbursement: Allowance is paid upfront; reimbursement is paid back later.
Word family
- allow (verb): To permit or give.
- allowable (adjective): Permitted or able to be deducted.
Collocations
- travel allowance
- housing allowance
- daily allowance
- baggage allowance
Idioms & expressions
- make allowances for (to excuse someone)
Example sentences
- "I will give you an allowance of fifty pounds." A character discussing their financial support.
- "The company provides a monthly housing allowance for employees relocated to London." A modern corporate policy.
Memory hook
ALLOW-ance: The company ALLOWS you to spend this specific amount on travel. Approved money for a specific need.
When not to use
Don't confuse with 'reimbursement,' which is money given after you have already spent your own money.
Fun facts
- In the UK, 'Personal Allowance' is the amount of money you can earn each year without paying any income tax.
- Children's 'pocket money' is called an 'allowance' in American English.
Related words
Also appears in
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