帮助中心

operate

[ˈɑːpəreɪt]

operate Definition

  • 1to control the functioning of a machine, process, or system
  • 2to perform a surgical operation on a person or animal
  • 3to work or function in a particular way

Using operate: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "operate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The company operates a fleet of delivery trucks.

  • Example

    The surgeon will operate on the patient tomorrow morning.

  • Example

    The new software operates much faster than the old version.

  • Example

    The amusement park operates from 10am to 8pm during the summer season.

operate Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for operate

Antonyms for operate

Phrases with operate

  • operate on all cylinders

    to be working at full capacity or efficiency

    Example

    After a good night's sleep, I was finally operating on all cylinders again.

  • to do something without attracting attention or being noticed

    Example

    The company has been operating under the radar for years, avoiding any major scandals or controversies.

  • to act in accordance with the laws and regulations of a particular jurisdiction

    Example

    As a responsible business, we always strive to operate within the law and maintain high ethical standards.

Origins of operate

from Latin 'operari', meaning 'to work'

📌

Summary: operate in Brief

To 'operate' [ˈɑːpəreɪt] means to control the functioning of a machine, process, or system, perform a surgical operation, or work or function in a particular way. Examples include 'The company operates a fleet of delivery trucks,' and 'The new software operates much faster than the old version.' Phrases like 'operate on all cylinders' denote full capacity or efficiency, while 'operate under the radar' means to avoid attention. 'Operate within the law' implies adherence to legal and ethical standards.

How do native speakers use this expression?