B2verb1K

UK/["/ˈɒpəreɪt/","/ˈɒpəreɪts/","/ˈɒpəreɪtɪd/","/ˈɒpəreɪtɪŋ/"]/US/["/ˈɑːpəreɪt/","/ˈɑːpəreɪts/","/ˈɑːpəreɪtɪd/","/ˈɑːpəreɪtɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Operate

In simple words: To control or work something.

Operate in a sentence

  • The company will operate several new routes starting next month.
  • Surgeons operate on patients to remove tumors or repair injuries.
  • Can you operate this machinery safely without supervision?
  • The organization has been designed to operate in a more efficient manner.
  • He had to operate under extreme pressure during the project.

How to use Operate

Use 'operate' when referring to machines, systems, or processes. It's neutral and appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, but avoid using it in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

operate + object

Memory hint

Imagine 'operating a radio' to remember it sounds like 'operate'.

Related words

Collocations with Operate

Synonyms for Operate

Opposites of Operate

Common mistakes with Operate

  • Confused with 'operate on' which refers to performing surgery.
  • Using 'operate' incorrectly with inanimate objects when 'function' is more suitable.
  • Omitting the object, e.g., saying 'I operate' instead of 'I operate the machine.'

Operate appears in

Operate in other languages

More words like Operate

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Frequently asked questions about Operate

What does Operate mean?

To control or work something.

What is the definition of Operate?

to work in a particular way

How do you use Operate in a sentence?

The company will operate several new routes starting next month.

Can you give another example of Operate?

Surgeons operate on patients to remove tumors or repair injuries.

What are synonyms for Operate?

Common alternatives include function.

What is the opposite of Operate?

Opposite meanings include cease, stop, halt.

What words go with Operate?

It commonly pairs with effectively, efficiently, reliably, be designed to, be easy to.

What are common mistakes when using Operate?

Confused with 'operate on' which refers to performing surgery. Using 'operate' incorrectly with inanimate objects when 'function' is more suitable. Omitting the object, e.g., saying 'I operate' instead of 'I operate the machine.'

How do you pronounce Operate?

US: /["/ˈɑːpəreɪt/","/ˈɑːpəreɪts/","/ˈɑːpəreɪtɪd/","/ˈɑːpəreɪtɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ˈɒpəreɪt/","/ˈɒpəreɪts/","/ˈɒpəreɪtɪd/","/ˈɒpəreɪtɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Operate?

Use 'operate' when referring to machines, systems, or processes. It's neutral and appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, but avoid using it in very casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Operate?

"Operate" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.