ration-card
Definition
- Noun:
- A document for rationed distribution: A "ration-card" is an official card or document issued by a government or authority that entitles the holder to a fixed amount of certain goods (such as food, fuel, or other essentials) during times of scarcity or controlled distribution.
- A tool for equitable allocation: It functions as a means to ensure fair access to limited resources, often used during war, economic hardship, or in welfare systems.
Usage Examples
- (A document for obtaining limited food items.)
- (A system for equitable allocation of a scarce resource.)
Advanced Usage
"to hold a ration-card": to be officially registered and eligible for rationed goods.
- Only citizens with a valid ration-card could purchase rice at the subsidized price. (To be entitled to receive controlled supplies.)
"ration-card fraud": illegal manipulation or forgery of such documents.
- The authorities cracked down on ration-card fraud, where people used fake cards to obtain extra goods. (Deceptive use of distribution documents.)
Variants and Related Words
Ration (n): a fixed allowance of provisions or food, especially for soldiers or civilians during shortages.
- The daily ration of water was limited to one liter per person. (A fixed amount.)
Rationing (n): the controlled distribution of scarce resources, goods, or services.
- Rationing of fuel was introduced to conserve supplies during the crisis. (The practice of allocating limited goods.)
Synonyms
- Coupon: a voucher or ticket entitling the holder to a specific quantity of goods.
- Allotment card: a document that grants a specific portion of a resource.
Related Idioms
"on the ration-card": indicating that an item is available only through official distribution.
- During the blockade, even basic medicine was on the ration-card. (Only obtainable by showing the card.)
"to be off the ration-card": to be freely available without restriction.
- After the harvest, vegetables were off the ration-card and sold openly in markets. (No longer subject to controlled distribution.)