Definition

The process of counting and checking the items or supplies that a business has in stock.

Example

The manager scheduled a stocktaking to ensure they had enough products for the upcoming sale.

Conversation

Have you finished the stocktaking for the inventory yet?

Not yet, I still have a bit more to count.

I know it can be a tedious process, but it's important to get it right.

Absolutely, a proper stocktaking helps avoid any surprises later.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stocktaking → It is formed from "stock" (from Old English *stoc*, meaning a place or a supply) and "taking" (from Old English *tacan*, meaning to seize or grasp). The word refers to the act of taking inventory or assessing the supply of goods in a place.

Memory Tip

Think of 'stock' as a supply or place and 'taking' as seizing or assessing — stocktaking means assessing the supply of goods.

Visually Confused Words