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logistics

luh-JISS-tiks /ləˈdʒɪs.tɪks/

nounB2TOEFLIELTSGMAT

formalprofessional

The detailed organization, planning, and execution of complex operations involving the movement of resources.

Emphasizes the intricate physical supply chain, transport networks, and timing required to deliver goods or people.

The story behind the word. Originating from French military jargon where 'logis' referred to quarters allocated to soldiers, quartermasters who handled housing and movement were named 'logisticiens'. It evolved into the broader science of moving and supplying forces.

Word relationships

coordination: Broader term for organizing people, whereas logistics targets physical resource movement.
supply chain management: Focuses specifically on commercial production and corporate distribution.

disorganization: Lack of systemic order or planning.

Commonly confused with

logic: Logic is valid reasoning; logistics is complex operational coordination.

Word family

logistical (adjective): Relating to logistics and supply operations.
logistically (adverb): In a manner relating to logistical planning.

Collocations

humanitarian logistics
logistics hub
logistics chain
logistical bottleneck

Idioms & expressions

a logistical nightmare

Example sentences

"Poor logistics delayed the arrival of freshwater supplies to remote island communities after the typhoon." Disaster Management

Memory hook

LOGISTICS keeps LOGS of supply LISTS. Right supplies, right place, right time.

When not to use

Do not use when referring to simple personal daily schedules or short single-step errands.

Fun facts

In military history, major battles were often won or lost based on superior logistics rather than tactical numbers.