Reading Theme:
Operation Definition: Meanings, Examples, and Usage Guide (3 meaning)
Meaning 1：functioning process (operation)
operation
/ˌɒpəˈreɪʃən/
n.
The way something works or functions, the process of doing a task.
functioning process
➕
/ˈfʌŋkʃənɪŋ ˈprəʊses/
n.
The way something works or functions, especially a series of actions or steps needed for a system to run.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'operatio' (work, effort), from 'operari' (to work), from 'opus' (work).
💡 Mnemonic
Operate like a pro - think of a surgical team working together smoothly.
📖 Example
The smooth operation of the public transport system is essential for the city.
The smooth operation of the public transport system is essential for the city.
🔗 Collocations
smooth operation – uninterrupted and efficient functioning
day-to-day operation – regular daily activities of a system
operation mode – a specific way a device or system functions
🔄 Synonyms
functioning (n.) – the way something works or operates
running (n.) – the act of managing or operating something
performance (n.) – the manner in which something functions
🚫 Antonyms
malfunction (n.) – failure to function properly
breakdown (n.) – a sudden failure of a system or machine
🌱 Derivatives
operate (v.) – to work or function
operational (adj.) – ready for use or functioning
operator (n.) – a person who controls a machine or system
📖 Cultural Story
Originates from Latin 'opus' (work). In military contexts, 'operation' became widely used during WWII for planned actions, later adopted in business and computing.
Meaning 2：surgical procedure (operation)
operation
/ˌɒpəˈreɪʃən/
n.
A medical procedure where a doctor cuts into the body to treat a disease or injury.
surgical procedure
➕
/ˈsɜːdʒɪkəl prəˈsiːdʒə/
n.
A medical procedure conducted by a surgeon to treat a disease, injury, or condition inside the body.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
My grandfather is feeling much better after his successful heart operation.
My grandfather is feeling much better after his successful heart operation.
🔗 Collocations
undergo an operation – to have a surgical procedure done
minor operation – a small or less risky surgical procedure
heart operation – surgery on the heart
🔄 Synonyms
surgery (n.) – medical treatment involving an incision
procedure (n.) – a specified medical intervention
surgical intervention (n.) – a doctor's action to repair the body
🚫 Antonyms
non-surgical treatment (n.) – therapy not involving surgery
🌱 Derivatives
operate (v.) – to perform surgery
operating room (n.) – a room in a hospital for surgery
post-operative (adj.) – relating to the period after surgery
Meaning 3：business activities (operation)
operation
/ˌɒpəˈreɪʃən/
n.
The daily activities involved in running a business, project, or large organization.
business activities
➕
/ˈbɪznɪs ækˈtɪvɪtiz/
n.
The daily activities and processes involved in running a business, organization, or large project.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The company's overseas operation has expanded to three new countries this year.
The company's overseas operation has expanded to three new countries this year.
🔗 Collocations
overseas operation – business activities in foreign countries
operations manager – a person in charge of daily business functions
field operation – activities carried out in a specific location
🔄 Synonyms
business (n.) – commercial activities or a company
management (n.) – the process of controlling and organizing
enterprise (n.) – a business or project, often large-scale
🚫 Antonyms
idleness (n.) – inactivity or lack of work
🌱 Derivatives
operational (adj.) – relating to the running of a business
operator (n.) – a company or person that runs a business
cooperation (n.) – working together with others
Wordbook
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