Definition

To divide or distribute something proportionally based on a specific factor or criteria.

Example

The costs will be prorated among all the participants based on their usage.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever had to prorate your rent when you moved in mid-month?

Yeah, I had to do that once, and it was a bit confusing at first.

I can imagine! It seems like it would be easier if they just explained how to prorate it clearly.

Definitely! Clear instructions would save a lot of headaches.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To divide or distribute something in proportion to a certain factor, such as time or amount.

Example

The company decided to prorate the bonuses based on the number of hours each employee worked.

Tense Forms

Conversation

How do you think they will prorate the rent for the month?

I guess they'll divide it based on the number of days we stayed.

That makes sense; it seems fair to prorate it like that.

Root Explanation

Prorate → It is formed from "pro-" (meaning for or in favor of) and "rata" (from Latin "ratio", meaning rate or proportion). The word "prorate" means to allocate or distribute something proportionally based on a specific rate.

Memory Tip

Think of allocating something 'for' ('pro-') a specific 'rate' ('rata') — that's how prorate means to distribute proportionally.

Visually Confused Words