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Ring fencing

Ring fencing

Meaning

Earmarking funds to guarantee a specific project can go ahead.

Examples

The government is making major cuts in spending, but at least the hospital will stay open – medical funding is ring-fenced.

Where did it originate?

Britain, early 20th century.

Where is it used?

Worldwide.

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About the Author

Gary Martin is a writer and researcher on the origins of phrases and the creator of the Phrase Finder website. Over the past 26 years more than 700 million of his pages have been downloaded by readers. He is one of the most popular and trusted sources of information on phrases and idioms.

Gary Martin

Writer and researcher on the origins of phrases and the creator of the Phrase Finder website. Over the past 26 years more than 700 million of his pages have been downloaded by readers. He is one of the most popular and trusted sources of information on phrases and idioms.
Ring fencing

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