Action Points

These control what players may do on their turns in the game by allocating each player a budget of “action points” each turn. These points may be spent performing various actions according to the game rules, such as moving pieces, drawing cards, collecting money, etc. This type of mechanic is common in many of what are called “German-style board games”.

(From Wikipedia)

Each player is allotted a certain amount of points per round. These points can be spent on available actions, until the player does not have enough remaining to “purchase” any more actions. This method grants the player greater freedom over how to execute his or her options. Pandemic is an example of this mechanic. Players are given 4 action points to be allocated between Movement, Air Travel, Special Action, or Special Ability.