What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ration
Example
During the war, people were given a daily ration of bread and water. [ration: noun]
Example
The government decided to ration the use of electricity during peak hours. [ration: verb]
allowance
Example
My parents give me a weekly allowance to spend on whatever I want. [allowance: noun]
Example
The teacher allowed the students to work in groups for the project. [allowed: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Allowance is more commonly used than ration in everyday language. Allowance is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while ration is less common and refers to a more specific situation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ration and allowance?
Both ration and allowance can be used in formal and informal contexts, but ration is typically associated with a more serious and urgent tone, while allowance is more casual and positive.
