ENGLISH
REFERENCE

dole out

idiom
Meaning

To distribute in apportioned amounts.


Examples
SIMPLE

The teacher will dole out the papers now.

CONTEXTUAL

The charity workers dole out hot meals to people in the park every Sunday morning.

COMPLEX

The manager began to dole out the remaining bonuses to the staff, carefully ensuring that each employee received an amount proportional to their recent contributions.

Anchors to

Last updated April 17, 2026