Definition of Operation
Quick Meaning of Operation
An action or activity; especially a medical procedure done by a surgeon in a hospital.
Detailed Definition of Operation
A process or series of actions; a surgical procedure performed by doctors.
How to Pronounce Operation
Stress pattern: ooOs (4-syllable word).
Tip: Stress on second syllable: op-er-AY-shun. Four syllables total.
Watch out: Some say 'oper-AH-tion' with different stress; correct is op-uh-RAY-shun.
Origin and Etymology of Operation
From Latin operatio; based on opus (work).
How to Use Operation in a Sentence
Each example shows “operation” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The operation took three hours to complete successfully.”
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“Military operations require careful planning and coordination.”
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“The business operation includes distribution and sales.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Operation
Common Synonyms for Operation
Smart Synonyms for Operation — When to Use Each
- procedure
- for formal or medical sequence
- process
- when referring to how something functions
- activity
- for informal business work actions
Common Collocations with Operation
These phrases pair with “operation” in everyday English:
- military operation
- surgical operation
- business operation
- covert operation
- operation successful
Common Mistakes When Using Operation
Even fluent speakers slip up with “operation”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He had a operation on his leg.
- ✓ Correct: He had an operation on his leg.
- Why: Use indefinite article 'an' before vowel sound; 'a operation' is incorrect.
- ✗ Wrong: The operations are very difficult to manage them.
- ✓ Correct: The operations are very difficult to manage.
- Why: Pronoun 'them' is redundant; 'operations' is already the object.
Words Confused With Operation
- Operation vs Operator: operation is the process; operator is the person doing it
Other Forms of Operation
- Noun: operation
- Verb: operate
- Adjective: operational
Frequently Asked Questions About Operation
What is the meaning of "Operation"?
An action or activity; especially a medical procedure done by a surgeon in a hospital.
How do you pronounce "Operation"?
The IPA is /ˌɑpəˈreɪʃən/. Stress on second syllable: op-er-AY-shun. Four syllables total.
What part of speech is "Operation"?
"Operation" is a noun at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Operation"?
Common synonyms include procedure, process, action.
How do you use "Operation" in a sentence?
For example: "The operation took three hours to complete successfully."