Operate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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operate
[ˈɒpəreɪt ]
Definitions
business
To perform a function or a series of functions. To work in a particular way or perform a particular action.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| operate |
Used when talking about controlling or handling a device or machine, or running a business or organization. It often implies a level of active management or control.
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| function |
Used when referring to the specific role or purpose something serves, particularly in technical or formal contexts. It often implies a defined role or purpose within a system.
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| work |
General term for performing tasks or activities, either physically or mentally. It is very versatile and can be used in informal and formal contexts, but does not imply active management.
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| run |
Commonly used for managing or overseeing day-to-day activities of a business, or for something that continues to work without interruption. It implies consistent performance or administration.
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Examples of usage
- The company operates in over 50 countries worldwide.
- The machine operates using advanced technology.
- The team operates efficiently under pressure.
medicine
To perform surgery on a patient. To carry out a medical procedure.
Synonyms
conduct operation, perform surgery.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| operate |
Use 'operate' when referring to the functioning or control of a machine, system, or organization. It can also refer to the act of performing surgery in medical contexts.
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| perform surgery |
Use 'perform surgery' specifically in medical contexts to describe the act of operating on a patient.
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| conduct operation |
Use 'conduct operation' when referring to the planning and execution of a specific mission, usually in a military or complex organizational context.
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Examples of usage
- The surgeon will operate on the patient tomorrow morning.
- The doctor operated on the injured athlete immediately after the accident.
military
A planned military or police action, especially a strategic or covert one.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| operate |
Similar to the first entry, but can also include contexts where managing or running something is involved, like businesses or projects.
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| mission |
Applicable when discussing a specific task or duty, often of significant importance or difficulty, such as space missions or rescue missions.
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| campaign |
Used when referring to organized efforts to achieve a particular goal, such as political campaigns or marketing campaigns.
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| maneuver |
Best used to describe a skillful or strategic movement, usually in a physical or military context.
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Examples of usage
- The special forces conducted a covert operation to rescue the hostages.
- The military operation was successful in neutralizing the enemy forces.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Technology
- In computing, 'to operate' often involves running software or programming hardware to perform specific tasks.
- The concept of operation in robotics includes algorithms that dictate how machines interact with their environment.
- Modern vehicles have complex operating systems that take inputs from drivers to navigate and function efficiently.
Medicine
- In healthcare, 'to operate' refers to surgical procedures performed by doctors to correct health issues.
- Surgeons must have extensive training to safely operate on patients, often requiring years of specialized education.
- Medical terminology uses terms like 'operating room' to denote the space where such procedures take place.
Education
- Learning to operate equipment is a key component in technical education programs, preparing students for various careers.
- Hands-on experience in operating machinery is often crucial in vocational training.
- Demonstrating how to operate tools safely can enhance learning in workshops and classrooms.
Psychology
- The term also applies to cognitive processes, where the brain 'operates' to think and solve problems.
- Some studies explore how individuals operate under stress, revealing insights into behavior and decision-making.
- The concept of 'self-regulation' can be viewed as a way individuals operate their own thoughts and emotions to achieve goals.
Origin of 'operate'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'operari,' meaning 'to work' or 'to perform.'
- It first appeared in English around the 14th century, originally referring to the act of performing tasks or actions.
- The definition expanded in the 19th century to include controlling machinery and technology.
The word 'operate' originated from the Latin word 'operatus', past participle of 'operari' meaning 'to work, labor, toil, take pains, be at work'. The term has evolved over time to encompass various meanings related to performing functions, surgeries, military actions, and more.
See also: cooperate, inoperable, interoperable, operability, operable, operated, operates, operating, operation, operational, operationally, operations, operative.