供給 vs 支給

[katafei]

貧しい家庭には、国から補助金が＿＿＿＿される。

1. 配達
2. 供給
3. 支給
4. 支出


I came across this question in a kanji book for JLPT.

The right answer is

Spoiler:

3

, but when I check the dict, I don't really see any difference in the meaning of

Spoiler:

2 and 3

....
Can anyone help me with this?

[Ongakuka]

支給 is used for supplying things for the purpose of aiding (with 支える meaning 'to support') so it fits the context of giving backup to poorer countries.

Your question is probably more about why 供給 is not acceptable... sorry I don't really know about that.

[katafei]

well, at least its a step in the right direction.....yes, 支給 seems to be used in more dramatic settings:

彼らは被災者に食糧を支給した。
They supplied the sufferers with food.

versus:

その川は町に電力を供給する。
The river furnishes electric power to the town.

thanks!