What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
operate
Example
He knows how to operate the printing press. [operate: verb]
Example
The surgeon will operate on the patient's heart tomorrow. [operate: verb]
Example
The company operates in several countries around the world. [operates: present tense]
manage
Example
She manages a team of software developers. [manages: present tense]
Example
He is responsible for managing the company's finances. [managing: gerund or present participle]
Example
I don't know how she manages to juggle work and family responsibilities. [manage: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Manage is more commonly used than operate in everyday language. Manage is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while operate is less common and refers to a more technical or specialized role.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between operate and manage?
Both operate and manage can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, operate may be more formal due to its association with technical or specialized roles.
