Organisation Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈɒrɡənaɪˈzeɪʃən/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A group of people, institutions, or individuals with a common purpose, goal, or interest, typically having a structured hierarchy and system of governance.

Examples

The non-profit organisation received funding to support local communities.
She joined the marketing organisation after completing her degree.
The new company was formed as a subsidiary of a multinational organisation.
Community organisations provided aid to disaster-stricken areas.
The academic organisation published a report on climate change.
She sought fundraising support from local businesses for her community organisation.

Synonyms

Entity
Body
Institution
Group

Antonyms

Irrelevance
Lack of structure
Disorder

Additional Information

Organisations can be driven by various motivations, including profit, social impact, or personal gain. They can take many forms, such as non-profit, for-profit, government, or hybrid models. Effective organisations rely on strong leadership, clear communication, and a shared purpose.

The structure and governance of an organisation depend on its specific goals and the context in which it operates.

Etymology

The word “organisation” comes from the French term “organisation”, which is derived from the Greek words “organon” (organ) and “taxis” (arrangement).

Usage Notes

When referring to an organisation, it’s generally more formal to use the plural form, as in “The organisation has announced new initiatives”. However, in some contexts, the singular form may be used, as in “The hospital is now an organisation of its own”.

Cultural References

In the 1979 film “Apocalypse Now”, the US Army uses the term “organisation” to refer to the military’s structure and hierarchy.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“Think outside the box” – to challenge traditional thinking and find innovative solutions, often in an organisational setting.

Related Words or Phrases

Company, institution, entity, group, body, agency, corporation.

Collocations

organise, organisation structure, organisational culture, organisational goals, organisational leadership, organisational change, organisational development.

Frequency of Use

Organisation is a commonly used term in business, education, and government settings, especially in discussions of strategy, management, and governance.

Common Misspellings

organisation, organisate, organiztion, organisazion.