indent

Question

Do these all mean the same thing?1-1. We indented for the engine spares last month.1-2. We ordered the engine spares....2-1. We placed an indent for the engine spares last month.2-2. We placed an order for the engine spares....Thank you.

Nef · Accepted Answer

ItasanDo these all mean the same thing?
1-1. We indented for the engine spares last month.
1-2. We ordered the engine spares....
2-1. We placed an indent for the engine spares last month.
2-2. We placed an order for the engine spares....

Thank you.

1-2 and 2-2 mean the same to me.

I think 'indent' and 'indented', as used here, may be British English. I'm in the western U.S. and am not familiar with those words being used like this. Let's see what someone else has to say.

Itasan · Answer

Thank you very much, Nef.

Nona the brit · Answer

I'm not familiar with that use of indent either. I looked in the dictionary and one definition is 'to order with an official form', but I wouldn't say it's in common use. Perhaps it is very industry specific, or possibly military? Not something you would hear at most companies, anyway.

Itasan · Answer

Oh, I see. Maybe it's archaic too. Thank you, Nona.

Clive · Answer

Hi,

'Indent' suggests that you order something, that you are entitled to have, from the central store. You and the store both belong to the same organization, so there is no payment involved. A govt. organization, like the army, would typically be involved. eg You lose a tank in battle so, as soon as you get the time, you indent for a new one.

You might also look at the term 'requisition'.

Best wishes, Clive

Itasan · Answer

I see. Thank you very much, Clive.

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