Ordering: meaning, definitions and examples

This is a repeat of the first word in the list 'ordering'. Please refer to the first 'ordering' entry for context and examples.

Use 'purchasing' in formal settings, often within business contexts, where the process of buying is part of a structured system. It's similar to 'buying' but tends to emphasize the act within a formal procedure or system.

• The purchasing department handles all of the company's needs
• He is involved in purchasing new equipment for the factory

Use 'buying' in general contexts where you are exchanging money for goods. This word is often used in day-to-day conversations and doesn't imply formality or specific procedures.

• He is buying groceries for the week
• They are buying a new car

Use 'procuring' in formal or business contexts, particularly when obtaining something that involves effort, negotiation, or careful planning. This term is less common in casual speech.

• The company is procuring raw materials for production
• She is responsible for procuring the necessary permits for the event

Duplicated entry; see the first 'ordering'.

Used when formally or politely asking for something.

• She is requesting a meeting with her manager.
• He is requesting more information about the scholarship.

Often used in situations where care or precision is needed in making a choice.

• She is selecting the best fruits at the market.
• He is carefully selecting his words to avoid misunderstanding.

It is used when picking or deciding between various options.

• She is choosing a dress for the party.
• He is choosing a new book to read.

Used when giving someone a task or duty in a firm or authoritative manner. Often associated with authority, such as in military or management contexts.

• The captain was ordering the troops to march forward.
• She was ordering her team to finish the project by the end of the week.

Used when exercising control or authority over others, typically in a more forceful or dominant way. Has a strong connotation of leadership or authority.

• The general was commanding his soldiers with a firm voice.
• His commanding presence made everyone in the room feel intimidated.

Used when providing detailed information, guidance, or teaching. Typically used in educational, technical, or training contexts.

• He was instructing the new employees on how to use the software.
• She spent the morning instructing the class on the principles of physics.

Used when guiding or supervising someone towards achieving a goal. Less authoritative than 'ordering' or 'commanding', often used in educational, creative, or managerial contexts.

• The teacher was directing the students on how to complete the experiment.
• She spent the afternoon directing the traffic around the accident site.