In economics, the term 'allocation' refers to:

The term 'allocation' in economics specifically refers to the distribution of resources among competing uses. This concept is crucial because resources, such as land, labor, and capital, are limited, and choices must be made regarding how to distribute them effectively among various uses in order to satisfy different wants and needs.

When resources are allocated, decisions need to be made regarding where they will have the most significant benefit or yield, often considering factors such as efficiency, equity, and the opportunity costs involved. For instance, if a certain amount of agricultural land is allocated for growing corn, that land cannot simultaneously be used for growing wheat, emphasizing the trade-offs and choices that must be made within the context of limited resources.

This understanding of allocation underpins much of economic theory and practice, influencing everything from market behaviors to governmental policy decisions. It reflects the essential economic problem of scarcity and how societies manage it through various mechanisms, including markets, government intervention, and community decisions.