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requisition

/ˌrɛkwɪˈzɪʃən/
nounverb★Intermediate💡 official demand for use or possession

“The government issued a requisition for the abandoned building.”

The government officially demanded the use of the abandoned building for public purposes.

⚖️Law
formal

an official order laying claim to the use of property or materials

The military issued a requisition for all available trucks in the region.

The military officially demanded the use of all trucks in the area for transport.

Under the Public Health Act, the city can issue a requisition for any building needed for emergency use.

By law, the city has the authority to officially take control of any building required for public health emergencies.

💡

Often used in legal or military contexts to describe the seizure of property for public or organizational use.

⚖️Law
formal

to demand the use or supply of something, especially by authority

The university requisitioned additional classroom space for the growing student body.

The university officially demanded the use of more classroom space to accommodate more students.

The army requisitioned food supplies from local farms.

The army officially took food supplies from nearby farms for its troops.

💡

Commonly used in wartime or emergency situations where resources must be allocated by authority.

Collocations

issue a requisitionto formally demand the use of property or materialsunder requisitionbeing officially demanded for use by an authorityrequisition ordera formal document authorizing the seizure of property

Synonyms

seizureconfiscationdemandclaimappropriation

Antonyms

releasereturnsurrender

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Use

Requisition is a formal term. In everyday language, use 'demand', 'take', or 'seize' instead. For example, say 'The landlord took the furniture' rather than 'The landlord requisitioned the furniture.'

⚡Gold Rule

Authority Matters

Requisition always involves an authoritative body (e.g., government, military, university) demanding the use of property or resources. It is not a voluntary action.

Legal Context

This term is most commonly used in legal, military, or governmental contexts. Ensure the context matches the formal nature of the word.

📖Word Origin

From Latin *requisitio(n-)*, from *requirere* meaning 'to seek again' or 'demand', with *re-* (again) + *quaerere* (to seek). The term entered English in the 15th century via Old French *requisition*.

📝Usage Notes

Requisition is typically used in formal or legal contexts, such as government or military actions. It implies a legitimate but authoritative demand, often for public or organizational benefit. Avoid using it in casual contexts.

Word Breakdown

re-
again or back
prefix
+
-quisition
from Latin *quaerere*, meaning 'to seek'
root
English Dictionary

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The most notable words that defined each year. Discover the vocabulary that shaped our world.