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Operational: meaning, definitions and examples

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operational

 

[ ˌɒpəˈreɪʃənl ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

business operations

Relating to the functioning or management of a business, organization, or system.

Synonyms

functional, practical, working.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
operational

This word is used to describe something that is ready for use or functioning as intended. Often used in business, technical, or military contexts.

  • The new software system is now fully operational.
  • The factory will be operational by next month.
functional

Used to describe something that is working correctly and performing its intended function. Can be used in various contexts, including technology, design, and everyday items.

  • The old coffee machine is still functional.
  • The website is now fully functional after the updates.
practical

Refers to something that is useful, efficient, or suitable for a particular purpose. It often emphasizes usability and real-world application.

  • She gave me some practical advice on how to save money.
  • The car is not very stylish, but it is practical.
working

Used to describe something that is currently operating or someone who is performing tasks. This can apply to machines, systems, or people.

  • The air conditioner is not working properly.
  • He is a working doctor, not just a researcher.

Examples of usage

  • The company is making changes to improve its operational efficiency.
  • Our team needs to focus on operational tasks to meet the deadline.
Context #2 | Adjective

military operations

Ready for use; able to be put into operation.

Synonyms

effective, functional, usable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
operational

Appropriate when referring to whether a system, machine, or organization is in a working state and ready to use.

  • The new software is fully operational.
  • Is the coffee machine operational yet?
functional

Used when focusing on the purpose and primary function of something, often distinguishing it from being merely decorative.

  • The alarm system is fully functional.
  • The functional design of the chair makes it comfortable.
usable

Employed when referring to the condition of being fit or ready for use, often highlighting convenience or user-friendliness.

  • After a quick repair, the old laptop is now usable.
  • The tool must be clean and usable.
effective

Best used when emphasizing the ability to achieve a desired outcome or result.

  • The new marketing campaign has been very effective.
  • This medicine is effective against the flu.

Examples of usage

  • The troops are on standby, ready for operational deployment.
  • The new equipment is fully operational and ready for testing.
Context #3 | Noun

aviation

A flight that is part of a regular schedule.

Synonyms

scheduled flight, service.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
operational

This word is used when referring to something that is in working order and functioning correctly, especially machinery, systems, or businesses. It implies that everything is running smoothly without any issues.

  • The new airport terminal is fully operational.
  • The company's new software system is now operational.
scheduled flight

This term is used to describe a flight that is planned to depart and arrive at specified times. It is commonly used in the context of commercial airlines and travel plans.

  • Our scheduled flight to London departs at 8 AM.
  • Due to bad weather, the scheduled flight was delayed.
service

This word refers to the act of helping or doing work for someone. It can also refer to a system or organization that provides something to the public. It is commonly used in business, customer support, transportation, and healthcare.

  • The customer service at this hotel is excellent.
  • The train service between the two cities has been improved.

Examples of usage

  • The airline announced new operational routes for the summer season.
  • We are expecting delays due to operational issues at the airport.

Translations

Translations of the word "operational" in other languages:

🇵🇹 operacional

🇮🇳 संचालनात्मक

🇩🇪 betrieblich

🇮🇩 operasional

🇺🇦 операційний

🇵🇱 operacyjny

🇯🇵 操作の

🇫🇷 opérationnel

🇪🇸 operativo

🇹🇷 operasyonel

🇰🇷 운영의

🇸🇦 تشغيلي

🇨🇿 provozní

🇸🇰 prevádzkový

🇨🇳 操作的

🇸🇮 operativen

🇮🇸 rekstrar-

🇰🇿 операциялық

🇬🇪 ოპერაციული

🇦🇿 əməliyyat

🇲🇽 operativo

Etymology

The word 'operational' originated from the Latin word 'operatio' meaning 'a working', which later evolved into 'operationalis' in Medieval Latin. The term gained prominence in the military and business sectors during the 20th century, emphasizing the efficiency and readiness of operations. Today, 'operational' is widely used across various industries to denote functionality and performance.

See also: cooperate, inoperable, interoperable, operability, operable, operate, operated, operates, operating, operation, operationally, operations, operative.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,676, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.