discretionary sum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "discretionary sum" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts involving finance or budgeting, where a certain amount of money is allocated for flexible use at the discretion of the decision-maker. Example: "The committee approved a discretionary sum to be used for unexpected expenses during the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Later that year Mogae was the recipient of the Mo Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership, which carried a $5 million award over 10 years, a $200,000 annual lifetime stipend thereafter, and a discretionary $200,000 sum to be awarded (per year, for a decade) to Mogae-designated "good causes".

Encyclopedia Britannica

CASH BONUS The sum of discretionary and performance-based cash payments made in addition to base salary.

The New York Times

"I think it's probably going to go nowhere over here," said Sen. Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C ., noting that unlike spending on pR-S.C . such as Medicare anotingial Securithatthe relatively minunlike spendingiscretionary sprogramstargeted in the White Housuchequest is hasdly a Medicareiver of the nandon'Social.

The Washington Post

For one thing, the pirate kingpins are a gentlemanly lot, what with their European pretensions and large sums of discretionary income.

The New York Times - Books

McDow wrote in court documents that it appeared Vick had "routinely relied upon others to make financial decisions for him, giving them discretionary control over large sums of money".

Wikipedia

Discretionary savings, defined as "the sum of financial and real savings," are likely to alternate, with mandatory savings as the most important component of household savings at various stages of the life cycle.

Life-Cycle Savings and Public Policy A Cross-National Study of Six Countries

Cross your fingers, assume the economic boom will last forever and that Congress will cut discretionary spending, and maybe the sums will add up.In the meantime, not everyone in America is willing to bask in the general euphoria.

The Economist

The total compensation figures represent the sum of base salary, discretionary and performance-based cash bonuses, option awards, stock awards and other compensation like benefits and perquisites.

The New York Times

For each executive, total compensation is calculated as the sum of base salary, discretionary and performance-based cash bonuses, the grant-date value of stock and option awards and other compensation like benefits and perquisites.

The New York Times

For each executive, total compensation is calculated as the sum of base salary, discretionary and performance-based cash bonuses, the grant-date value of stock and option awards and other compensation, which typically includes benefits and perquisites.

The New York Times

For each executive, total compensation is calculated as the sum of base salary, discretionary and performance-based cash bonuses, the grant date value of stock and option awards, and other compensation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "discretionary sum" with a clear explanation of what it can be used for, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Common error

Avoid categorizing necessary or pre-allocated funds as a "discretionary sum". A "discretionary sum" should genuinely represent the money available for optional spending based on individual or organizational preferences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "discretionary sum" functions as a noun phrase. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. It typically acts as the subject or object in a sentence, denoting an amount of money that can be used at someone's discretion.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "discretionary sum" is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase used to describe an amount of money available for flexible spending. While Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is valid, the lack of numerous examples suggests it may not be extremely common. Related phrases like "flexible amount" or "allocated fund" can be used as alternatives. It's important to distinguish "discretionary sum" from mandatory expenses and discretionary income. When using this phrase, ensure clear communication about the purpose and scope of the funds.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flexible amount

Emphasizes the adaptability and freedom in using the money.

allocated fund

Highlights the money's official designation for a specific purpose.

available funds

Focuses on the accessibility and readiness of the money.

budgeted allowance

Suggests a pre-planned amount within a larger budget.

optional expenditure

Highlights the non-mandatory nature of the spending.

contingency fund

Implies the money is reserved for unforeseen circumstances.

reserve capital

Focuses on setting aside money for strategic financial goals.

excess funds

Suggests funds that are beyond what is strictly necessary.

uncommitted capital

Focuses on funds not yet designated for specific projects.

slush fund

Implies a less formal or transparent source of money (use with caution).

FAQs

How can I use "discretionary sum" in a sentence?

You can use "discretionary sum" to describe funds allocated for flexible spending, such as "The manager has a "flexible amount" to invest in employee training programs."

What are some alternatives to "discretionary sum"?

Alternatives include "flexible amount", "allocated fund", or "available funds", depending on the specific context.

Is "discretionary sum" the same as discretionary income?

"Discretionary sum" generally refers to a specific amount allocated within a budget, while discretionary income is the income remaining after essential expenses. They both relate to optional spending, but in different contexts.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the term "discretionary sum"?

Use "discretionary sum" when describing financial situations where an individual or entity has the freedom to decide how a specific amount of money will be spent, within certain guidelines or without them.