parcel out

Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition

Verb: - To distribute or give out in portions, especially in small or measured amounts. It implies a systematic or careful division of something among multiple recipients.

Usage

This verb is typically used with a direct object (what is being distributed) and often includes an indirect object or prepositional phrase (to whom or among whom it is distributed). It is commonly used in formal, administrative, or organizational contexts.

Examples
  • The aid organization will parcel out the food supplies to the families in the refugee camp.
  • The manager had to parcel out the remaining tasks among the team members.
  • He carefully parceled out his inheritance to his three children.
Advanced Usage
  • "to parcel something out": This is the standard construction, emphasizing the act of dividing a whole into shares.
    • The land was parceled out to the settlers.
  • Often used in passive voice to describe the state of distribution.
    • The responsibilities were parceled out fairly.
Variants and Related Words
  • Parcel (noun): A wrapped bundle or a package. Also, a portion of land.
    • She sent a parcel to her friend.
  • Parcel (verb): To make something into a parcel for sending. Often used with "up".
    • She parceled up the books for shipping.
  • Apportion (verb): To divide and allocate proportionally. (More formal synonym).
  • Allot (verb): To give or assign a share of something.
Synonyms
  • Distribute
  • Dispense
  • Allocate
  • Dole out
  • Divide
  • Share out
Related Phrasal Verbs
  • Dole out: To distribute, especially in small amounts, often implying scarcity or charity.
    • The soup kitchen doles out meals every evening.
  • Shell out: To pay or give out money, often reluctantly.
    • I had to shell out fifty dollars for the ticket.
  • Deal out: To distribute cards in a game; can be used metaphorically for distributing other things.
    • She dealt out the cards. / The judge dealt out harsh sentences.
Related Idioms
  • Deal a blow: To deliver a strike or a setback. (Note: This idiom uses "deal," not "parcel," but is related in the sense of administering something).
    • The news dealt a severe blow to their plans.
Verb
  1. administer or bestow, as in small portions
    • administer critical remarks to everyone present
    • dole out some money
    • shell out pocket money for the children
    • deal a blow to someone
    • the machine dispenses soft drinks