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logistics

luh-JISS-tiks /ləˈdʒɪs.tɪks/

nounB2IELTSTOEFLGMAT

formaltechnical

The detailed organization and implementation of a complex operation, especially the movement and supply of materials and personnel.

Emphasizes practical coordination, transport chains, warehousing, and scheduling during operations.

The story behind the word. From Greek 'logistikos' (calculating) through French 'logistique'. Swiss military strategist Antoine-Henri Jomini popularized the term in 1838 to designate the branch of military science dealing with movement and supply of armies.

Word relationships

coordination: 'Coordination' is general management of working parts; 'logistics' specifically emphasizes physical supply, transport, and equipment.
organization: 'Organization' refers to structure or layout; 'logistics' focuses on dynamic movement and flow of goods.

disorganization: Lack of order, planning, or efficient handling.

Commonly confused with

logic: 'Logic' is sound reasoning; 'logistics' is operational supply movement, despite sharing an ancient Greek linguistic ancestor.

Word family

logistic (adjective): Relating to logistics and supply operations.
logistically (adverb): In a manner relating to logistics or operational movement.

Collocations

logistics operation
emergency logistics
logistics supply chain
logistics manager

Example sentences

"The director praised the logistics team for successfully coordinating fuel deliveries and medical trucks across three flooded counties." Disaster management dispatch
"Flawless logistics are critical when organizing medical transport for thousands of evacuees during a pandemic." Supply chain report

Memory hook

LOG-istics keeps a LOG of all supply trucks moving. Moving supply where it needs to go.

When not to use

Do not use for simple single-step decisions like deciding which shirt to wear.

Fun facts

French military officers called 'maréchal des logis' were originally responsible for securing lodgings and camping sites for troops.