expression, noun
discretionary allowance; stipend at one's discretion
Historical term referring to a stipend or allowance given at the discretion of a feudal lord or superior, not a fixed entitlement. Used in Edo-period contexts.
江戸時代、下級武士にはあてがい扶持が与えられることがあった。
In the Edo period, lower-ranking samurai were sometimes given a discretionary stipend.
あてがい扶持で
Many samurai found it hard to live on a discretionary allowance and took on side jobs.
Compound of あてがい (noun form of verb あてがう, 'to allot, assign') and 扶持 (ふち, 'stipend, ration'). The term reflects the practice of a lord assigning a stipend at his own discretion rather than as a fixed hereditary right.