logistics
loh-JIS-tiks
/ləˈdʒɪs.tɪks/
The detailed coordination of a complex operation involving many people, facilities, or supplies.
In business, it specifically refers to the movement of goods; in general use, it can refer to the 'how-to' of any complex event.
The story behind the word. Derived from the French 'logis' (lodging), it originally referred to the 'maréchal des logis,' the officer responsible for finding lodging for troops. It was later influenced by the Greek 'logistikos' (skilled in calculating).
Word relationships
- organization: Organization is general; logistics is specifically about the movement and positioning of resources.
- coordination: Coordination is the act of working together; logistics is the system that enables it.
- chaos: Chaos is the total lack of organization, the opposite of logistics.
Commonly confused with
- supply chain: Supply chain is the entire network; logistics is the specific movement of goods within that network.
Word family
- logistical (adjective): Relating to logistics.
- logistically (adverb): In a logistical manner.
Collocations
- logistics management
- third-party logistics
- global logistics
- supply chain logistics
Example sentences
- "Logistics comprises the means and arrangements which work out the plans of strategy and tactics." A classic military definition of the term. (Baron de Jomini, Summary of the Art of War)
- "The logistics of housing five hundred delegates across ten different hotels were a nightmare." Planning a large international conference.
Memory hook
Think of 'logic' applied to 'statistics' to move goods—Logistics. Moving parts, smart charts.
When not to use
Don't use for simple, one-step tasks like 'the logistics of making a sandwich.'
Fun facts
- The first formal study of logistics was military, as armies realized they couldn't fight if they didn't have food or boots.
Related words
Explore more words
coordinate, mobilize, coordination, supply chain, deploy, quartermaster
Also appears in
- Business → Industry & Manufacturing
- Business → Operations & Logistics
- Business → Globalization & Trade
- Military Science & Warfare → Military Strategy & Tactics
- Military Science & Warfare → Military Command & Logistics
- Food Science & Culinary Craft → Agricultural Supply Chains
- Home & Domestic Life → Moving & Relocation
- Skilled Trades & Construction → Commercial Trucking & Freight
- Skilled Trades & Construction → Construction Site Management
- Emergency Services & Public Safety → Disaster Relief & Humanitarian Aid
- Emergency Services & Public Safety → Emergency Shelters & Evacuation
- Aviation & Maritime Transport → Commercial Maritime Shipping
- Civic Life & Public Services → Postal & Delivery Services
- Business → Event Management & Trade Shows
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