What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
apportion
Example
The teacher will apportion the group project equally among the students. [apportion: verb]
Example
It is important to apportion the budget based on the needs of each department. [apportioning: gerund or present participle]
assign
Example
The manager will assign different tasks to each team member. [assign: verb]
Example
I have been assigned the responsibility of organizing the event. [assigned: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Assign is more commonly used than apportion in everyday language. Assign is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while apportion is less common and more specific to the distribution or allocation of resources, responsibilities, or tasks.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between apportion and assign?
While apportion is generally more formal, assign can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more flexible choice in terms of formality.
