rationing
RASH-un-ing
/ˈræʃ.ən.ɪŋ/
The controlled distribution of scarce resources, goods, or services, typically by fixed allowances.
Implies strict administrative control over essential supplies during acute shortage.
The story behind the word. Traced to Latin 'ratio', meaning calculation or proportion. It entered military vocabulary in the 18th century as the daily measured portion of food calculated for a soldier.
Word relationships
- allocation: General distribution of resources, whether scarce or plentiful.
- apportionment: Proportional distribution according to an established formula.
- squandering: Wasteful expenditure of resources.
- unrestricted access: Free, unmeasured availability.
Commonly confused with
- rationalizing: Rationalizing means justifying behavior logically; rationing means limiting distribution of scarce goods.
Word family
- ration (noun/verb): A fixed allowance of provisions, or to limit to fixed amounts.
- rationed (adjective): Controlled and limited in supply.
Collocations
- fuel rationing
- water rationing
- enforce rationing
- rationing system
Idioms & expressions
- tighten one's belt
Example sentences
- "Strict water rationing was enforced throughout the drought-stricken municipality to preserve reservoirs." Resource Control
Memory hook
RATIONING uses REASON to portion out limited goods. Controlled portions in scarcity.
When not to use
Do not use to describe voluntary personal budgeting during times of abundance.
Fun facts
- During World War II, food rationing in Britain lasted until 1954, nine years after the war ended.
Explore more words
scarcity, allocate, scarce, distributive, redistribution, triage
Also appears in
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