a massive operation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a massive operation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a large-scale activity or undertaking, often in contexts such as military, medical, or business operations. Example: "The rescue team launched a massive operation to locate the missing hikers in the mountains."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is a massive operation, designed to link and unify all of the group's online operating systems in Europe, North America and Australia, as the Guardian consolidates itself as a leading 24-hour-a-day English-language global news operation.

The Guardian

It ended up being a massive operation.

The Guardian

"It's a massive operation," he says.

Independent

Isn't it a massive operation?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is a massive operation.

The Guardian

A massive operation is under way to remove the toxic topsoil to prevent it spreading downwards.

The Economist

All public transport ceased, police responded to the reports with a massive operation.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's a massive operation and I still haven't seen one moved".

The Guardian

The other area is North Waziristan where the military launched a massive operation in June.

The Guardian

It's a massive operation, but it's always a challenge and there's never a dull moment.

The Guardian - Music

Indonesian security forces have now mounted a massive operation to try to find Top and his confederates.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a project or event, use "a massive operation" to convey the scale and complexity involved. Be specific about the aspects that make it 'massive,' such as the number of people involved, the resources required, or the geographical scope.

Common error

Avoid using "a massive operation" too frequently in your writing. While it effectively conveys size, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, vary your language by using alternatives like "large-scale undertaking" or "extensive campaign" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a massive operation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a large-scale activity or undertaking, as seen in Ludwig's examples, such as "a massive operation to remove the toxic topsoil".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a massive operation" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe undertakings of significant scale and complexity. Ludwig's analysis, supported by numerous examples from reputable sources, confirms its frequent use in news and media to emphasize the scale of the operations. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse and consider contextually appropriate alternatives such as "large-scale undertaking" or "extensive campaign" to maintain clarity and reader engagement. The phrase is applicable across various topics, ensuring it effectively communicates the magnitude of the operation at hand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a large-scale undertaking

This alternative emphasizes the size and complexity of the endeavor, similar to "a massive operation".

an immense undertaking

Similar to "large-scale undertaking", this further stresses the sheer size of the effort.

an extensive campaign

This phrase highlights the organized and strategic nature of the operation, suggesting a coordinated effort over time.

a major initiative

This option underscores the importance and significance of the operation as a key project or plan.

a comprehensive effort

This choice stresses the thorough and all-encompassing nature of the operation, leaving no aspect untouched.

a considerable project

This highlights the substantial size and resource investment in the operation.

a monumental task

This phrase emphasizes the challenging and demanding nature of the operation.

a Herculean effort

This alludes to the mythical strength and effort required for the operation.

a sprawling enterprise

This suggests the operation covers a wide area or involves many different elements.

a full-blown action

This emphasizes the intensity and scale of the activity involved in the operation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a massive operation" to describe any large-scale or complex undertaking. For example, "The company launched "a massive operation" to overhaul its outdated infrastructure."

What are some alternatives to "a massive operation"?

Alternatives include "large-scale undertaking", "extensive campaign", or "major initiative". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a massive operation" in formal writing?

Yes, "a massive operation" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing significant endeavors. However, ensure that the context justifies the use of such a strong term. In some formal contexts, a more neutral term like "comprehensive effort" might be preferable.

What distinguishes "a massive operation" from a simple "operation"?

The word "massive" emphasizes the scale, scope, and complexity of the operation. While an "operation" can refer to any planned activity, "a massive operation" implies a very large and complex undertaking involving significant resources and coordination.