redistribution
ree-dis-trih-BYOO-shun
/ˌriːdɪstrɪˈbjuːʃn/
The distribution of something in a different way, especially the reallocation of wealth or income through taxation and welfare.
Refers to official systemic policies that transfer assets from wealthy sectors to poorer segments to narrow inequality.
The story behind the word. Combines 're-' (again) with 'distribute', derived from Latin 'tribuere' (to allocate among tribes). In ancient Rome, taxation and land allocations were divided according to administrative 'tribus' (tribes). 'Redistribution' emerged in 19th-century political economy as theorists analyzed state tax policies.
Word relationships
- reallocation: Reallocation is general shifting of resources; redistribution carries strong social equity implications regarding income.
- reapportionment: Reapportionment specifically applies to legislative political seats rather than tax revenue or financial assets.
- concentration: Concentration is the accumulation of resources in a single area or small group.
- hoarding: Hoarding is accumulating and keeping resources away from distribution.
Commonly confused with
- distribution: Distribution is initial spreading out; redistribution is taking existing allocations and altering them.
Word family
- redistribute (verb): To distribute again or differently.
- redistributive (adjective): Intended to reallocate wealth or resources.
Collocations
- wealth redistribution
- redistribution of resources
- redistribution policy
- income redistribution
Example sentences
- "Progressive tax codes serve as a major mechanism for wealth redistribution within democratic market economies." Fiscal policy discussion
- "The government proposed a systemic redistribution of public funding toward rural school districts." Social welfare analysis
Memory hook
RE-DISTRIBUTION = Distributing again to fix inequality. Redistribution = Re-sharing wealth fairly.
When not to use
Do not use to describe passing out cards during a casual card game.
Fun facts
- In welfare economics, the 'Robin Hood effect' is the formal term for income redistribution where tax money from high earners aids low earners.
Explore more words
distributive, allocation, egalitarian, redress, allocate, restitution
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