food allowance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "food allowance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific amount of money allocated for food expenses, often in the context of employment or budgeting. Example: "As part of my employment package, I receive a monthly food allowance to cover my meals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

While they may not all include such splendid accommodation, many voluntary jobs offer free meals or allow volunteers to claim a food allowance.

The Guardian - Money

What about a food allowance?

The Guardian

*Hungry Members of Parliament are entitled to claim a monthly food allowance of £400.

Independent

"Money was very tight," says Ray. "It leaves you with a food allowance.

Independent

That will cover the teachers' pay-rise and a better food allowance for soldiers and police.

The Economist

In 2004-05, he regularly claimed the £400 maximum food allowance per month.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

He moved into 11 Downing Street in September 2007 and designated it as his second home, allowing him to claim food allowances at his grace and favour residence.

The Guardian

The Telegraph reported that Darling submitted the service charge on his London flat while designating 11 Downing Street as his second home, allowing him to claim food allowances at his grace and favour residence.

The Guardian

Repentant militants each got $393 a month in cash plus food allowances during rehabilitation.

The Economist

Mr. Shami said that his sales have plummeted as nearby firms have cut jobs and reduced or eliminated food allowances.

The New York Times

The firm said instead of giving free food allowances to anyone working at least a six-hour shift, it had introduced a cut-price menu for all workers.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the allocation of funds for food, consider the context. Use "food allowance" for general purposes or when referring to a regular allotment, but opt for more specific terms like "meal stipend" or "grocery budget" to highlight the purpose or frequency of the allowance.

Common error

Avoid using "food allowance" when a more specific term is appropriate. For instance, if the allowance is exclusively for meals at restaurants, "meal allowance" is more accurate than the broader "food allowance".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "food allowance" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It denotes a specific amount of money allocated for food expenses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

20%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "food allowance" is a common and grammatically correct term referring to a specific amount of money allocated for food expenses. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, from news reports and scientific articles to everyday discussions. Its function is typically that of a noun phrase, serving to inform about budgetary allocations for food. While the term maintains a neutral register, it’s important to consider the specific context and opt for more precise terms when appropriate, such as "meal stipend" or "grocery budget", for enhanced clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

meal stipend

Specifies a fixed sum for meals, emphasizing regular provision.

dietary budget

Focuses on the financial aspect of planning for food consumption.

sustenance fund

Highlights the essential nature of the allocation for basic needs.

grocery stipend

Specifically designates funds for purchasing groceries.

monthly food budget

Specifies a set amount of money allocated on a monthly basis for food expenses.

food provision

Emphasizes the act of providing food resources.

daily food ration

Focuses on a fixed daily quantity or allocation of food.

catering budget

Refers to funds specifically for catering services or events.

nutritional allocation

Highlights the nutritional aspect of food distribution.

subsistence payment for food

Explicitly states the payment is for the purpose of subsistence, focused on food.

FAQs

How can I use "food allowance" in a sentence?

You can use "food allowance" to describe a sum of money allocated for food. For example, "The company provides a monthly food allowance to its employees."

What is an alternative to "food allowance"?

Alternatives to "food allowance" include "meal stipend", "food subsidy", or "dietary budget" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "food allowance" and "per diem"?

"Food allowance" specifically refers to money for food, while "per diem" is a daily allowance for all expenses, including food, lodging, and incidentals.

Which is more appropriate, "food allowance" or "grocery budget"?

"Food allowance" is a general term, while "grocery budget" is more specific, referring to the amount allocated specifically for groceries. Use "grocery budget" when the funds are designated solely for groceries.