apportion

[uh-pawr-shuhn, uh-pohr-]

verb (used with object)

1. to distribute or allocate proportionally; divide and assign according to some rule of proportional distribution.

   to apportion expenses among the three men.

apportion

/ əˈpɔːʃən /

verb

1. (tr) to divide, distribute, or assign appropriate shares of; allot proportionally

   to apportion the blame

Other Word Forms

• apportionable adjective
• apportioner noun
• nonapportionable adjective
• unapportioned adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of apportion¹

1565–75; < Middle French apportionner, equivalent to ap- ap- ¹ + portionner to portion

Example Sentences

The preliminary report states its role is "not to apportion blame or liability".

From BBC

A chunk of blame is being apportioned to the chancellor's fiscal rules – and to the chancellor herself.

From BBC

Lord Adebowale is not naming the NHS service involved in her care, saying he does not want to apportion individual blame, as his mother's experience was symbolic of a wider problem.

From BBC

"And very odd, frankly, from a GP who should be looking after patients in a very reasonable, apportioned way."

From BBC

Given the spending that is now on hold was apportioned by Congress, it is likely this will face legal challenges about the scope of presidential power.

From BBC

Related Words

• administer 
• allocate 
• allot 
• distribute 
• divvy up www.thesaurus.com