a magazine/newspaper 'subscription' = a 'subscription' to a magazine/newspaper
You won't find this magazine at newsstands. It's sold only by 'subscription'.
She bought a 'subscription'. = She took out a 'subscription'.
(..) Too bad she's aIready taken. HeIIo there, may I be of assistance? StanIey Ipkiss? Hi! I'm Peggy Brandt from the Tribune. I canceIed my subscription because they kept steaIing-- No, actuaIIy, I want to ask you a few questions. ReaIIy? About what? RipIey Auto Finishing. You're a customer, aren't you? (..)1994 The Mask