Doled out (dəʊld aʊt) is a common phrase in English that means to give or distribute something in a small or limited amount. The spelling of this word is based on the phonetic transcription of the two words that form it. /doʊld/ represents the pronunciation of the word ‘dold’, which means to give something sparingly. /aʊt/ indicates the final sound of the word ‘out’, which means to distribute or allocate something. Together, ‘doled out’ means to distribute or give something in a limited or cautious manner.
Doled out is a phrasal verb that refers to the act of distributing or giving out something, usually in small portions or quantities. It carries the connotation of allocating resources or providing assistance, often in a controlled or calculated manner.
When something is "doled out," it suggests a deliberate and sometimes limited distribution, often done by an authority figure or entity. It implies a sense of control and regulation over the recipients of what is being given. This can include physical objects, such as food or supplies, or more abstract concepts like advice or rewards.
The term "doled out" is commonly used in contexts where resources or benefits are scarce or when there is a need to share them among a group of individuals. It can be seen in situations where aid organizations or government agencies distribute relief goods to those in need during a crisis or disaster. Alternatively, it might describe a parent giving their children a small amount of allowance or spending money on a regular basis.
The phrase "doled out" might also carry a negative connotation, suggesting a stingy or unsympathetic manner of distributing resources. There can be an implication of inequality or favoritism in the way something is allocated, indicating that not everyone receives an equal share.
Overall, "doled out" expresses the act of parceling out or dividing something and often implies a controlled or regulated distribution with potential implications of inequality or limitation.
The word "doled out" is a combination of the verb "doled" and the preposition "out".
The verb "dole" can be traced back to the Old English word "dālan", which meant "to divide" or "to distribute". It has Germanic origins and is related to similar words in Old High German, Old Norse, and Old Frisian.
The preposition "out" simply means "away from a source" or "to distribute", denoting the direction or manner in which something is distributed or given.
So, when these two words are combined to form "doled out", it refers to the act of distributing something, usually in small quantities or portions.