Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Operational: meaning, definitions and examples

⚙️
Add to dictionary

operational

 

[ˌɒpəˈreɪʃənl ]

Definitions

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?

arrow down
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?

arrow down
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?

arrow down
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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'operatio', meaning 'working or performing'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 19th century, often relating to business and machinery.
  • The suffix '-al' means 'pertaining to', making 'operational' mean 'pertaining to operations'.

Business

  • In the business world, being 'operational' refers to how efficiently a company runs its daily activities.
  • Operational managers focus on the processes that keep a business running smoothly.
  • Many companies strive for 'operational excellence', which means they aim to operate better than their competition.

Military

  • In military terms, 'operational' relates to the planning and execution of missions.
  • An 'operational theater' is a specific area where military operations are carried out.
  • The term emphasizes coordination of various forces to achieve strategic objectives.

Technology

  • In software, 'operational' refers to systems or programs that are functioning and delivering services.
  • Operational technology (OT) relates to hardware and software used to detect or control physical devices, like machinery.
  • The rise of operational analytics helps businesses make real-time decisions based on performance data.

Psychology

  • In psychology, 'operational definitions' are used to create measurable definitions of complex concepts.
  • For example, defining 'happiness' operationally might involve using specific indicators like smiling or laughing.
  • This approach helps researchers ensure everyone understands what they are measuring.

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

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.