operate

To control a machine or piece of equipment so it does its job.

• Can you operate this machine?
• She learned to operate the crane safely.
• Only trained staff may operate this equipment.

Similar words: use, control, run

Common phrases: operate a machine, operate a crane, operate something safely

To work or do business in a particular place or way.

• The company operates in France.
• They operated a small shop together.
• Several charities operate under the same roof.

How to use it: operate in somewhere (The charity operates in several countries.); operate under something (The company operates under a new name.)

Similar words: work, do business, run

Common phrases: operate in somewhere, operate a business, operate under something

If a machine does this, it works and performs its usual job.

• The machine operates quietly.
• This device operates on two batteries.
• Will the system operate at low temperatures?

How to use it: operate on something (The radio operates on battery power.)

Similar words: work, function, run

Common phrases: operate smoothly, operate on batteries, operate independently

To cut into someone’s body to treat a disease or injury.

• The doctors must operate immediately.
• A surgeon operated on her knee.
• Will they need to operate again?

How to use it: operate on someone/something (The surgeon operated on his injured leg.)

Similar words: perform surgery

Common phrases: operate on someone, operate on something, operate immediately, operate again

To work, act, or have an effect in a particular way.

• How does this system operate?
• The rule operates differently in practice.
• Several forces operate together to shape the result.

How to use it: operate through something (The scheme operates through a network of local groups.)

Similar words: work, function, act

Common phrases: operate effectively, operate in practice, operate through something