distribution
/ˌdɪstɹəˈbjuːʃən/
The word describes the movement of things from a central source to multiple destinations. It evokes an image of spreading, scattering, or allocating resources so they are no longer concentrated in one spot. In logistics and business, it carries a professional, systemic connotation. It refers to the entire infrastructure (warehouses, trucks, retailers) required to move goods from factory to consumer. In statistics and geography, the word is more analytical and descriptive. It doesn't imply an active "giving" but rather a pattern or arrangement of data points across a space or scale. Unlike "sharing," which implies a social or emotional connection, distribution is typically clinical, administrative, or mathematical.
Uncountable when discussing the general act of handing things out or the logistics of getting products to stores ('distribution is key to success'). Countable when referring to specific statistical patterns, such as a 'normal distribution' or a 'Poisson distribution'.
💬Casual Conversation
My prof's grade distribution is so whack. I'm gonna fail this class for sure.
Sounds like a skill issue to me. Just get good, sis.
Meanings
The action of sharing something out among a number of recipients.
"The distribution of food supplies was coordinated by the Red Cross."
The way in which something is shared out or spread over an area.
"The population distribution is heavily skewed toward the coastal cities."
The process of making a product or service available for purchase by consumers.
"The company is looking for a new distribution partner in Southeast Asia."
In statistics, a function that gives the probability of a continuous random variable falling within a particular range.
"The data follows a normal distribution, forming a classic bell curve."
Collocations & Compounds
statistical distribution
The way in which a set of data is divided into a number of different values, especially within a given range.
The statistical distribution of heights in the population is approximately normal.
normal distribution
A symmetrical bell-shaped graph that represents the probability of a continuous random variable taking on a specific value.
The IQ scores of a large population tend to follow a normal distribution.
frequency distribution
A table or graph that shows the number of times each value or range of values occurs in a set of data.
We analyzed the frequency distribution of customer ages to understand our market.
probability distribution
A function that describes the likelihood of obtaining the possible values that a random variable can assume.
The probability distribution for a fair coin toss is simple, with equal chances for heads and tails.
resource distribution
The way in which available resources are shared or allocated among a group or area.
Fair resource distribution is a key goal for many developing nations.
Idioms & Sayings
distribution channel
the path a product takes from producer to consumer
The company is diversifying its distribution channel to include direct-to-consumer sales.
uneven distribution
a state where resources are not spread equally
The uneven distribution of wealth remains a significant political issue in the region.
distribution network
a system of interconnected hubs for moving goods
The logistics firm invested millions to expand its distribution network across Europe.