B1noun2K

Operation

UK /["/ˌɒpəˈreɪʃn/"]/US /["/ˌɑːpəˈreɪʃn/"]/

Definition

the process of cutting open a part of a person’s body in order to remove or repair a damaged part

In simple words: A task or activity that is done to achieve a goal.

Examples

  • The operation was scheduled for early morning.
  • He was a key player in the military operation.
  • The math operation was too complex for her to solve.
  • They performed a successful operation to remove the tumor.
  • The operation of the machinery requires special training.
  • We need to improve the operation of our team's workflow.

Usage notes

Used in various contexts such as business, military, and mathematics. It may seem too formal for casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

operation + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'operating' a machine – both require a clear plan for success.

Collocations

  • major
  • minor
  • small
  • have
  • undergo
  • come through
  • during a/​the operation
  • operation for
  • operation on
  • big
  • large-scale
  • major
  • begin
  • launch
  • mount
  • during a/​the operation
  • a theatre/​theater of operations
  • big
  • large-scale
  • major
  • begin
  • launch
  • mount
  • during a/​the operation
  • a theatre/​theater of operations
  • big
  • large-scale
  • major
  • begin
  • launch
  • mount
  • during a/​the operation
  • a theatre/​theater of operations
  • effective
  • efficient
  • smooth
  • come into
  • bring something into
  • put something into
  • during operation
  • in operation
  • in full operation
  • into full operation
  • big
  • large-scale
  • major
  • begin
  • launch
  • mount
  • during a/​the operation
  • a theatre/​theater of operations

Synonyms

  • procedure
  • process
  • function
  • task
  • mission

Antonyms

  • disruption
  • inaction

Common mistakes

  • 'Operation' used incorrectly to mean 'operation table' or 'operation room'.
  • Confused with 'operation' as a synonym for 'procedure' in informal settings.
  • Omitting the noun that follows 'operation', e.g., saying 'operation is' instead of 'operation of machinery is'.