Synonyms for

Dole

Verb / dəʊl / Another word for dole — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To distribute in small amounts; a portion or allowance of money or food given to someone in need

Synonyms & similar words

pogey pogy allocate apportion distribute dispense divide mete parcel ration share deal provide administer allot bestow disburse supply

Synonyms by register

Formal

allowance benefit subsidy grant

Informal

handout welfare payout crib

Literary

boon alms largesse

Antonyms

give provide contribute earn work create

Common collocations

  • unemployment dole
  • dole queue
  • dole out
  • dole payment
  • dole money
  • receive the dole

Word family

noun dole
verb dole

Usage note

The word 'dole' is often used informally and can carry a negative connotation, implying unearned or unwanted assistance. It is most commonly associated with unemployment benefits.

Example sentences

  1. The government will dole out financial aid to those affected by the pandemic.
  2. The teacher will dole out pencils to the students who need them.
  3. My grandmother would dole out cookies to us after school.
  4. The soup kitchen will dole out meals to the homeless.
  5. I will dole out the ice cream to everyone at the party.

Quotes

  • The dole is a very bad way of providing for the unemployed. It reduces them to a state of slavery to the state. - Margaret Thatcher
  • The dole is the most disastrous thing that ever happened to the human spirit. - George Galloway
  • The dole is a dangerous weapon that can be used to destroy the will of the people. - Enoch Powell

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words