# operationally

/ˈɑpɝˈeɪʃənəɫi/ (US) · /ˌɒpəɹˈeɪʃənəli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/operationally
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

in a way that relates to how a system, machine, or business works in practice. You use this when talking about the daily tasks or the actual running of something.

For teachers: in a manner relating to the practical functioning or daily management of a system, organization, or machine. Often used to distinguish practical execution from theoretical or strategic planning.

## Examples

- The new software is operationally sound.
- While the merger was a success on paper, it proved operationally difficult to integrate the two different IT systems.
- The committee met to discuss how the new safety protocols would be implemented operationally across all three manufacturing sites without disrupting the current production schedule.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.