What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
behave
Example
The children need to behave well at the restaurant. [behave: verb]
Example
She always behaves politely when meeting new people. [behaves: present tense]
operate
Example
The computer operates on a complex algorithm. [operate: verb]
Example
He knows how to operate the new coffee machine. [operates: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Behave is more commonly used than operate in everyday language, as it is a word that is frequently used to discuss human behavior and actions. On the other hand, operate is more commonly used in technical or mechanical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between behave and operate?
While behave is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, operate is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the subject matter.
