doled out

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Sure! Let’s break down the phrase "doled out."

Definition

The phrase "doled out" means to give or distribute something in small amounts or portions. It is often used when something is given carefully or in limited quantities.

Usage Instructions

• Context: You can use "doled out" when talking about sharing food, money, help, or information, especially when it’s not given all at once.
• Form: "Dole out" is a verb phrase, and "doled out" is its past tense form.

Example

• Simple Example: "The teacher doled out the snacks to the students during the break."
• More Contextual Example: "He doled out advice to his friends, giving them one piece at a time to think about."

Advanced Usage

In a more advanced context, you might use "doled out" to describe situations where resources are limited, and careful management is required. For example: - "During the crisis, the charity doled out supplies to families in need, ensuring that everyone received something."

Word Variants

• Dole (verb): To give out something in portions.
  • Example: "She decided to dole out her savings to help her friends."
• Dole (noun): A benefit paid to the unemployed or a portion of food given to those in need.
  • Example: "He received his dole until he found a new job."

Different Meanings

1. Dole (noun): As mentioned, it can refer to a payment or benefit, particularly for the unemployed.
2. Doleful (adjective): This word describes someone who is sad or mournful.
   • Example: "She had a doleful expression after hearing the bad news."

Synonyms

• Distributed
• Allocated
• Handed out
• Gave out

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• "Dole out" can be used in idiomatic expressions, but it primarily stands alone as a verb phrase. There aren’t many idioms that include "dole out," but you might hear phrases like:
  • "Dole out the truth" (to reveal information gradually).

Summary

So, to recap, "doled out" means giving or distributing something in small portions, often done carefully.

Academic

Adjective

1. given out in portions

Synonyms

• apportioned
• dealt out
• meted out
• parceled out