a covert operation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a covert operation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a secret or undercover mission, often in a military or intelligence context. Example: "The agency conducted a covert operation to gather intelligence on the suspected terrorist group."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Bin Laden died directly at the hands of the United States, in a covert operation in May by U.S. Navy SEALs and CIA operatives ordered by President Obama.

The Washington Post

It was an attempt at a covert operation.

The New York Times - Sports

Back then, the public knew little about a covert operation that had been running since 1968.

The Guardian

"It is one thing if the weapons assistance to the YPG remains a covert operation.

The Guardian

They even used me in a covert operation, aimed at a local spot known for cruising.

The Guardian

Is taking out an extremist Web site a covert operation or a traditional military activity?

The Washington Post

I'm about to embark on a covert operation rather different from my ordinary job of analysing numbers at my desk.

Independent

It is being run like a covert operation, with no marketing or detailed information about its products or their prices.

The New York Times

What had started as a covert operation became overt as Mexican forces attempted to heighten the pressure on Chapo.

The New Yorker

"And, as far as they're concerned, this is a covert operation, and it's to be kept within Defense Department channels".

The New Yorker

There appears to be a covert operation that is running in some way with, or using, Strathclyde police's name.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a covert operation", ensure the context clearly indicates who is conducting the operation and what its objective is. Providing specific details, even if limited, can enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid vague statements like "a covert operation was conducted". Instead, specify the entity behind the operation, for example, "the CIA launched a covert operation". This adds credibility and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a covert operation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, providing examples from diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Encyclopedias

13%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a covert operation" is a common noun phrase used to describe secret missions, often by governmental or military entities. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across varied sources, including News & Media, encyclopedias, and academic texts. While grammatically sound, specifying the actor enhances clarity. Consider using synonyms like "a clandestine operation" or "an undercover mission" to fine-tune your message. Remember to specify the agent of "a covert operation" for impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clandestine operation

Replaces "covert" with "clandestine", emphasizing the secretive and often illicit nature of the operation.

an undercover mission

Substitutes "operation" with "mission" and "covert" with "undercover", highlighting the deceptive aspect.

a secret undertaking

Uses "undertaking" instead of "operation" and "secret" for "covert", focusing on the hidden nature of the activity.

a stealth action

Replaces "operation" with "action" and "covert" with "stealth", emphasizing the element of secrecy and careful execution.

a hidden maneuver

Employs "maneuver" as a substitute for "operation" and "hidden" in place of "covert", highlighting the strategic and concealed aspect.

a confidential assignment

Substitutes "operation" with "assignment" and "covert" with "confidential", focusing on the sensitive and private nature.

a surreptitious activity

Replaces "operation" with "activity" and "covert" with "surreptitious", emphasizing the secretive and deceptive nature.

a private initiative

Uses "initiative" instead of "operation" and "private" for "covert", focusing on the exclusive and non-public character.

a backroom deal

Replaces "operation" with "deal" and uses "backroom" to imply secrecy, often with a negative connotation.

a shadow program

Substitutes "operation" with "program" and "covert" with "shadow", highlighting the hidden and often unofficial nature.

FAQs

What does "a covert operation" mean?

A "covert operation" refers to a secret or clandestine mission, often carried out by intelligence agencies or military forces, intended to remain hidden from the public and sometimes even from the target.

What are some synonyms for "a covert operation"?

Alternatives include "a clandestine operation", "an undercover mission", or "a secret undertaking". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "covert operation" or "covert operations"?

Both are correct. "A covert operation" refers to a single instance, while "covert operations" refers to multiple instances or the general practice.

How does "a covert operation" differ from a regular military operation?

While both can involve military personnel, "a covert operation" is distinguished by its secrecy and deniability. Regular military operations are typically acknowledged and conducted openly, whereas covert operations are designed to be concealed.