ability to operate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability to operate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it anytime you need to refer to someone's or something's ability to do something. For example, "The machine's ability to operate efficiently is impressive."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The ferry operations are critical and that makes New York Waterway's ability to operate important," Mr. Coscia said.

The New York Times

But the broader issue is the ability to operate efficiently.

The New York Times

"This may jeopardise the carriers' ability to operate.

The Guardian

Both effects hinder the reactor's ability to operate.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The limitations also sacrifice picture resolution and limit the sensor's ability to operate in low light.

The New York Times

This contract will affect every team's ability to operate in the system".

The New York Times - Sports

Other analysts had begun to question Winstar's ability to operate without continued financing from investors.

The New York Times

Choudary's ability to operate in plain sight, seemingly without legal sanction, raises many questions.

The Guardian

To qualify for spaceflight, sampling instruments must demonstrate their ability to operate in the expected environment.

Advances in Space Research

The promoting effect of CeO2 also improved the catalyst's ability to operate under lean conditions.

Catalysis Today

The team discovered that the swelling associated with ankle fractures delays the surgeon's ability to operate.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a system's functionality, use "ability to operate" to emphasize its inherent design for operation. For example, "The software's ability to operate seamlessly across platforms makes it highly versatile."

Common error

Avoid using "ability to operate" in contexts where "operability" or "functionality" would be more concise. For instance, instead of "the machine's ability to operate efficiently", consider "the machine's efficient operability".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability to operate" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the capacity or capability to perform a specific function or task, as supported by examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ability to operate" is a versatile and common noun phrase used to describe the capacity or capability of something or someone to perform a specific function. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts, including news, science, and academia. While "ability to operate" is generally appropriate, consider using more concise alternatives like "operability" or "functionality" where suitable. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, showcasing its relevance in discussing systems, businesses, and individuals' capabilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capacity to function

Focuses on the functional aspect of operating.

capability to perform

Highlights the skill and competence required to operate.

power to run

Emphasizes the energy or resources needed for operation.

means to manage

Focuses on the resources and methods used for operating.

potential to utilize

Highlights the inherent possibility of operating.

scope to maneuver

Refers to flexibility and space to operate.

freedom to act

Emphasizes the autonomy to operate independently.

license to proceed

Indicates formal approval or permission to operate.

authority to execute

Focuses on the official authorization to operate.

room to develop

Highlights the chance for growth or expansion while operating.

FAQs

How can I use "ability to operate" in a sentence?

You can use "ability to operate" to describe the capacity or capability of something or someone to perform a specific function. For example, "The company's "ability to operate" efficiently is crucial for its success".

What are some alternatives to "ability to operate"?

Alternatives to "ability to operate" include phrases like "capacity to function", "capability to perform", or "power to run", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "ability to operate" or "operability"?

While both "ability to operate" and "operability" are valid, "operability" is often more concise and suitable when referring to the functional state of something. "Ability to operate" is more appropriate when emphasizing the capability or capacity to perform a task.

What factors can affect the "ability to operate" of a business?

Many factors can influence a business's "ability to operate", including market conditions, regulatory changes, financial stability, and technological advancements. Internal factors like management effectiveness and employee skills also play a significant role.