C1adjective formal 3K

Operational

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˌɒpəˈreɪʃənl/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˌɑːpəˈreɪʃənl/"]/

Meaning of Operational

connected with the way in which a business, machine, system, etc. works

In simple words: Related to how something works or functions.

Operational in a sentence

• operational activities/costs/difficulties
• The new airport is now **fully operational**.
• The weapon system was declared operational in June.
• They plan to keep the telescope operational until the end of the decade.
• operational headquarters

How to use Operational

Use 'operational' in formal contexts, especially in business or technical discussions. It may not fit well in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think 'operation' — if something is operational, it’s ready for action like a well-oiled machine.

Related words

Collocations with Operational

• be
• become
• remain
• fully
• be
• become
• remain
• fully

Synonyms for Operational

• functional
• working
• active
• utilizable
• serviceable

Opposites of Operational

• nonoperational
• inactive
• out of order

Common mistakes with Operational

• Confusing 'operational' with 'operation' - they have different meanings.
• Using 'operational' to describe non-functional objects - it specifically means something that is working.
• Mispronouncing the word due to unfamiliarity with technical jargon.

Frequently asked questions about Operational

What does Operational mean?

Related to how something works or functions.

What is the definition of Operational?

connected with the way in which a business, machine, system, etc. works

How do you use Operational in a sentence?

operational activities/costs/difficulties

Can you give another example of Operational?

The new airport is now **fully operational**.

What are synonyms for Operational?

Common alternatives include functional, working, active, utilizable, serviceable.

What is the opposite of Operational?

Opposite meanings include nonoperational, inactive, out of order.

What words go with Operational?

It commonly pairs with be, become, remain, fully, be, become, remain, fully.

What are common mistakes when using Operational?

Confusing 'operational' with 'operation' - they have different meanings. Using 'operational' to describe non-functional objects - it specifically means something that is working. Mispronouncing the word due to unfamiliarity with technical jargon.

How do you pronounce Operational?

US: /["/ˌɑːpəˈreɪʃənl/"]/, UK: /["/ˌɒpəˈreɪʃənl/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Operational formal or informal?

"Operational" is formal, so it fits professional, business, or academic conversations.

When should I use Operational?

Use 'operational' in formal contexts, especially in business or technical discussions. It may not fit well in casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Operational?

"Operational" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.