Reading Theme:
Operational: Definition, Usage & Key Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：in working order (operational)
operational
/ˌɒp.ərˈeɪ.ʃən.əl/
adj.
Ready to be used or working properly.
in working order
➕
/ɪn ˈwɜː.kɪŋ ˈɔː.dər/
adj.
Describes a system, device, or organization that is ready for use and functioning correctly.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From 'operation' (action, work) + '-al' (suffix forming adjectives). 'Operation' originates from Latin 'operari' (to work).
💡 Mnemonic
Think: 'OPERATE' is at its core. Add '-IONAL' to describe the state of being ready to operate.
📖 Example
After months of testing, the new high-speed train line is finally operational and passengers are thrilled with its efficiency.
Following extensive testing, the high-speed rail service is now fully functional and receiving positive feedback from travelers.
🔗 Collocations
fully operational – completely ready and working at full capacity
become operational – to reach a state of being ready for use
operational status – the current condition of being functional or non-functional
🔄 Synonyms
functional (adj.) – Working or able to work properly.
active (adj.) – In operation; functioning.
working (adj.) – Functioning as intended.
🚫 Antonyms
non-operational (adj.) – Not working or not ready for use.
broken (adj.) – Out of order; not functioning.
🌱 Derivatives
operationally (adv.) – In a way that relates to operation or functioning.
📖 Cultural Story
The term gained prominence in the mid-20th century within military and business management contexts. It reflects a focus on efficiency and readiness, mirroring the rise of complex systems like assembly lines and computer networks that required precise, functional coordination.
Meaning 2：related to daily operations (operational)
operational
/ˌɒp.ərˈeɪ.ʃən.əl/
adj.
Related to how something works or is managed daily.
related to daily operations
➕
/rɪˈleɪ.tɪd tu ˈdeɪ.li ˌɒp.ərˈeɪ.ʃənz/
adj.
Pertaining to the day-to-day functioning and activities of an organization, system, or process.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
As the store manager, her main focus is on solving day-to-day operational issues, like scheduling staff and managing inventory.
Her primary responsibility as the store manager is to address routine functional problems, such as employee rotas and stock control.
🔗 Collocations
operational costs – the ongoing expenses for running a business
operational efficiency – how well a system or organization uses its resources
operational level – the level of management concerned with daily tasks
🔄 Synonyms
administrative (adj.) – Relating to the running of a business or organization.
managerial (adj.) – Relating to management or managers.
procedural (adj.) – Relating to an established or official way of doing something.
🚫 Antonyms
strategic (adj.) – Relating to long-term planning, not daily execution.
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