a major operation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a major operation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a significant or important procedure, often in a medical or organizational context. Example: "The hospital is preparing for a major operation that will take place this weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She needed a major operation and quickly.

The Guardian - Money

"It was a major operation," he said.

The New York Times

Doing the dishes became a major operation.

The New Yorker

And Austen had just undergone a major operation.

The Guardian

One of my patients needs a major operation.

The Guardian

He accomplished a major operation in such a war.

The New York Times

Ronnie had undergone a major operation and was having chemotherapy.

The Guardian

Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is a major operation with high complication rate.

Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine

Or he could have a major operation to find out what they were.

The New York Times

It's a major operation, potentially lasting all day if it's a bilateral mastectomy, as most are".

The Guardian

"It looks nice on paper, but it is a major operation.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a major operation", ensure the context clearly indicates the type of operation being referred to (e.g., medical, military, business) for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a major operation" without providing sufficient context, as it can be vague and leave the audience unsure of the specific nature and scale of the operation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major operation" functions as a noun phrase, where 'major' modifies 'operation'. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, indicating the undertaking of a significant action or procedure. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is both correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

18%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a major operation" is a grammatically correct and widely used term that describes a significant undertaking or procedure. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English. It is most frequently encountered in news and scientific contexts, indicating its relevance across various domains. While versatile, it's essential to provide adequate context to avoid vagueness. Related phrases include "significant undertaking" and "extensive procedure". The authoritative sources like The Guardian and The New York Times contribute to its credibility and frequent use. Therefore, while the phrase is very common, precision in its application enhances clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant undertaking

Focuses on the scale and importance of the operation, emphasizing the effort involved.

an extensive procedure

Highlights the breadth and complexity of the operation, often used in medical or technical contexts.

a large-scale endeavor

Emphasizes the size and scope of the operation, suggesting a coordinated effort.

a critical intervention

Stresses the necessity and importance of the operation, particularly in situations requiring immediate action.

a complex maneuver

Highlights the intricate and skillful nature of the operation, often used in military or strategic contexts.

a crucial process

Focuses on the importance and indispensability of the operation as part of a larger system.

a sweeping change

Emphasizes the transformative impact of the operation, suggesting widespread effects.

an ambitious project

Highlights the scale and aspiration of the operation, suggesting a challenging undertaking.

a comprehensive strategy

Focuses on the planned and thorough nature of the operation, suggesting a well-defined approach.

a far-reaching initiative

Emphasizes the broad scope and long-term impact of the operation, suggesting a significant investment.

FAQs

How can I use "a major operation" in a sentence?

You can use "a major operation" to describe a significant undertaking, such as "The company underwent "a major operation" to restructure its departments".

What are some alternatives to "a major operation"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "significant undertaking", "extensive procedure", or "large-scale endeavor".

In what situations is it appropriate to use the term "a major operation"?

It's appropriate when referring to significant interventions, whether medical, strategic, or organizational. For instance, "the patient required "a major operation" to repair the damage".

What makes an operation qualify as "a major operation"?

An operation is considered "a major operation" when it involves substantial resources, complexity, and potential impact. It often signifies a critical intervention with far-reaching consequences.