# parcel out

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/parcel-out
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

To divide something into smaller parts so you can give them to different people or groups. You use this when sharing things like land, money, or work.

For teachers: To divide a whole into smaller portions for distribution or allocation. This transitive verb often implies a systematic or deliberate division of resources, responsibilities, or land.

## Examples

- The manager needs to parcel out the work to the team.
- After the grandfather passed away, the family had to parcel out his large estate among the five grandchildren.
- The committee spent weeks deciding how to parcel out the remaining grant funds among the various competing research projects to ensure maximum impact.

## Pitfalls

- Not "We need to parcel the tasks." but "We need to parcel out the tasks." — The verb 'parcel' alone usually means to wrap a package, whereas 'parcel out' is required to mean distribution.

## Usage notes

- This phrase is commonly used for dividing land, money, or specific tasks among a group.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'hand out' to show that 'parcel out' implies a more careful or formal process of deciding who gets what.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.