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logistics

luh-JIS-tiks /ləˈdʒɪstɪks/

nounC1GREGMATTOEFL

businessprofessional

The detailed organization and implementation of a complex operation involving many people, facilities, or supplies.

Focuses on the movement, coordination, and supply chain aspects of an operation rather than the creative or strategic content.

The story behind the word. From French 'logistique', from 'logis' (lodging), originally referring to the military task of moving and quartering troops. It was later influenced by the Greek 'logistikos' (skilled in calculating).

Word relationships

coordination: Coordination is the act of making things work together, while logistics specifically involves physical movement and supply management.
organization: Organization is a broad term for structural planning, whereas logistics is highly operational and action-oriented.

chaos: Complete disorder, which is the direct opposite of structured logistics.

Commonly confused with

logic: Logic is the study of reasoning, while logistics is the practical management of supply chains and operations.

Word family

logistical (adjective): Relating to logistics.
logistically (adverb): In a logistical manner.

Collocations

event logistics
logistics coordinator
complex logistics
logistics management

Example sentences

"She handled the logistics of transporting three hundred international delegates." Discussing the coordination of an international summit.

Memory hook

Think of 'logic' applied to 'statistics' to move goods and people smoothly. The science of getting things to the right lodging.

When not to use

Avoid using for simple, single-step tasks, such as the 'logistics' of making toast.

Fun facts

The term was popularized by the military theorist Antoine-Henri Jomini in his 1838 book 'Summary of the Art of War', where he defined it as the practical art of moving armies.