Purchasing: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in everyday contexts or business environments to describe the process of obtaining goods or services in exchange for money. It can refer to both small and large transactions.

• She is responsible for purchasing office supplies for the company.
• He was purchasing groceries when he received the call.

Commonly used in everyday speech, it refers directly to the act of purchasing something with money. It is less formal than 'purchasing' and 'acquiring'.

• I am buying a new phone tomorrow.
• They are buying snacks for the party.

Often used in formal or business contexts, it can refer to obtaining something through effort, negotiation, or by other means beyond simple purchase. It can also refer to gaining knowledge or skills.

• The company is acquiring a new technology firm.
• She is acquiring new skills through the training program.

A technical term often used in business or governmental contexts to describe the process of finding and acquiring goods or services, usually with a focus on the process itself including negotiation and adherence to regulations.

• The procurement department handles all the purchasing requests.
• The government has strict regulations on the procurement of military equipment.

General term for obtaining goods or services in exchange for money, used in both everyday and business contexts.

• She is responsible for purchasing office supplies.
• I am thinking of purchasing a new laptop.

Used primarily in formal or business contexts, especially when referring to the process of obtaining goods or services in a structured or regulated manner.

• The procurement department handles all company purchases.
• Government procurement processes can be very complex.

Often used in business contexts to describe obtaining assets, companies, or large items, and can also mean the act of gaining knowledge or skills.

• The company's acquisition of the rival firm was headline news.
• Language acquisition is a complex process.

Commonly used in everyday situations to describe the act of obtaining items in exchange for money, often on a smaller scale or for personal use.

• I am buying groceries for dinner tonight.
• He was buying a gift for his friend's birthday.

Refers to the act of buying something, often used in formal or business contexts to describe acquiring goods or services.

• The company is responsible for purchasing office supplies.
• Purchasing a new car can be a significant decision.

Refers to the activity of buying goods or services over the internet, often used in a casual or consumer-focused context.

• Online shopping during the holiday season can be very convenient.
• She prefers online shopping for clothes because of the wider selection.

Describes the buying and selling of goods or services using the internet. Commonly used in discussions about online businesses and digital transactions.

• E-commerce has revolutionized the retail industry.
• Small businesses are increasingly turning to e-commerce platforms to reach a wider audience.