Quota

/ˈkwoʊtə/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A fixed limited amount or number that is allocated or permitted.
The company set a quota for each sales representative to achieve by the end of the quarter.
A share or proportional part assigned to a group or individual.
The school's quota for student admissions was filled ahead of the deadline.
A restriction on the quantity or value of goods that can be exported or imported.
The government imposed a quota on the importation of foreign cars to protect local manufacturers.

Etymology

From Latin 'quota pars', meaning 'how much of'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

job quota:
A specific number of positions or tasks that must be filled or completed.
production quota:
A set amount of goods that must be produced within a given timeframe.
export quota:
A limit on the quantity of goods that can be exported.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Quota-busting
When the sales team exceeded their targets, they were called quota-busters.
Quota-screwed
After the changes in policy, many employees felt quota-screwed by unrealistic demands.