Definition

Verb (transitive) To plan and allocate a specific amount of money for a particular purpose or expense within a formal financial plan (a budget).

Usage

This verb is used to describe the act of including an anticipated cost or expense in a financial plan. It implies careful calculation and foresight. It is often followed by a noun or noun phrase indicating the expense.

Examples

• The city council budgeted for new playground equipment in the next fiscal year.
• Did you remember to budget for annual insurance premiums?
• We failed to budget for the sudden increase in fuel costs.

Advanced Usage

• Passive Voice: The expense can be the subject of the sentence.
  • A significant contingency fund was budgeted for in case of construction delays.
• With Modals: Used to express necessity, advice, or past planning.
  • You must budget for regular maintenance on a vehicle that old.
  • We should have budgeted for higher travel expenses.

Variants and Related Words

• Budget (n.): An estimate of income and expenditure for a set period of time.
• Budget (v.): To allow or provide for in a budget (e.g., ).
• Allocate for: To set aside for a particular purpose (a broader synonym).
• Plan for: To make arrangements for in advance (a more general synonym).

Synonyms

• Allocate for
• Allow for
• Plan for
• Provide for
• Set aside money for

Related Phrasal Verbs / Constructions

• Account for: To take into consideration (often used similarly in financial planning).
  • Your proposal must account for potential risks.
• Make allowance for: To plan or prepare for something, especially a possible problem or extra cost.
  • Always make allowance for unexpected expenses when you travel.

Related Idioms

• To factor in: To include something in your calculations.
  • When pricing the service, don't forget to factor in your labor costs.

Verb

1. calculate enough money for; provide for in the budget
   • I have not budgeted for these expensive meals