What is the Opposite(Antonym) of “operate”?

The Opposite(Antonym) of “operate”

The antonyms of operate are malfunction, fail, and break down. These antonyms describe a situation where something is not functioning properly or has stopped working altogether.

Explore all Antonyms of “operate”

• malfunction
• fail
• break down

Definitions and Examples of malfunction, fail, break down

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

malfunction

To fail to function correctly.

Example

The printer malfunctioned and printed out blank pages.

fail

To be unsuccessful in achieving a goal or task.

Example

The company failed to meet its sales targets for the quarter.

break down

To stop working or functioning properly.

Example

The car broke down on the highway and had to be towed to a mechanic.

Key Differences: malfunction vs fail vs break down

• 1. Malfunction refers to a technical problem that prevents something from working correctly.
• 2. Fail implies that someone or something did not achieve a desired outcome or goal.
• 3. Break down suggests that something has stopped working altogether and may require repair or replacement.

Effective Usage of malfunction, fail, break down

• 1. Technical Writing: Use malfunction and break down to describe technical issues in manuals and reports.
• 2. Business Communication: Use fail to describe unsuccessful projects, products, or initiatives.
• 3. Everyday Conversation: Incorporate these antonyms in everyday conversations to describe situations where things are not working properly.

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Remember this!

The antonyms of operate describe situations where something is not functioning properly. Malfunction refers to a technical problem, fail implies an unsuccessful outcome, and break down suggests something has stopped working altogether. Use these words in technical writing, business communication, and everyday conversation to describe situations where things are not working properly.