ENGLISH
REFERENCE

operate

v.
US //ˈɑpɝˌeɪt// UK //ˈɒpəɹˌeɪt// op·er·ate
  1. 1 to function (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    to work or run in a specific way.

    to function or work according to a particular principle or mechanism.

    Example

    The new heating system operates much more quietly than the old one.

    Example

    The underground network operates on a strictly automated schedule, ensuring that trains arrive at three-minute intervals during peak hours.

    Usage

    Often used with adverbs like 'efficiently', 'smoothly', or 'automatically'.
  2. 2 to control a machine (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    to use or control a piece of equipment or a machine.

    to control the functioning of a machine, process, or system. Transitive when referring to the machine being controlled.

    Example

    You must be trained before you are allowed to operate this heavy machinery.

    Example

    The technician demonstrated how to operate the high-precision laser without damaging the delicate internal components.

    Usage

    Takes a direct object representing the machine or system.
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  1. 3 medical surgery (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Medicine

    to cut into a person's body to fix a medical problem.

    to perform a surgical procedure on a patient. Intransitive when used with 'on'; occasionally transitive in technical medical contexts.

    Example

    The surgeons had to operate on his leg immediately after the accident.

    Example

    The surgical team decided to operate on the patient's heart only after stabilizing his blood pressure and reviewing the latest scans.

    Usage

    Typically takes the preposition 'on' followed by the patient or the body part.
    • perform surgery
    Pitfall
    The doctor operated the patient yesterday.
    The doctor operated on the patient yesterday.

    In general English, you must use the preposition 'on' before the person receiving the surgery.

  2. 4 to run a business (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to manage or conduct a business or organization.

    to conduct or manage the affairs of a business, organization, or project.

    Example

    The company operates several branches across the country.

    Example

    The non-profit organization operates under a strict transparency policy to ensure all donations are tracked and reported accurately.
Origin

From Latin operātus, perfect passive participle of operor (“to work, labor, toil, have effect”), see -ate (verb-forming suffix).

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