able to operate

USAGE SUMMARY

"able to operate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a machine or system that can be used as intended. For example: "This new computer system is able to operate quickly and efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They would not be able to operate".

The New York Times

Firstly, why are the terrorists not being able to operate?

The New York Times

The syndicates have been able to operate with relative impunity.

The Economist

Zal is able to operate in this kind of an environment.

The New Yorker

Trawlers, in particular, would no longer be able to operate around the farm.

The New York Times

He is able to operate because he gets the ingredients from his mother.

The New Yorker

But at least UNTAET is now able to operate in mostly peaceful conditions.

The Economist

Hence the two men were able to operate freely in America.

The Economist

I'm concerned that the rogue practitioners will still be able to operate outside this scheme.

The Guardian

Why has the LRA been able to operate for so long?

The Guardian

"The company has to be able to operate profitably," Mr. McGrath said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a system or machine, use "able to operate" to clearly indicate its functionality and capacity to perform as intended.

Common error

While synonyms exist, using overly complex or uncommon phrases instead of "able to operate" can make your writing sound unnatural or confusing. Keep it simple for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "able to operate" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, describing the capacity or capability of something to perform its intended function. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is grammatically sound and readily applicable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

38%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "able to operate" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the capacity or capability of something to function as intended. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. It's commonly found in news, science, and technical writing, and while synonyms exist, it is important to choose alternatives carefully to maintain clarity. When writing, ensure that the phrase accurately reflects the subject's capacity to perform its designated function.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capable of functioning

Replaces "able to" with "capable of", focusing on inherent capacity.

in working condition

Emphasizes the current state of being operational.

ready for use

Highlights preparedness and availability for immediate operation.

fit to run

Implies suitability and preparedness for running or operating a system.

equipped to work

Focuses on the presence of necessary equipment for operation.

prepared to function

Highlights the state of being ready to perform tasks or operate.

in operational mode

Refers to a specific state or setting where something is actively running.

ready to go

Informal way of saying something is ready to start or operate.

set to work

Indicates a state of readiness and intention to begin working or operating.

functioning properly

Emphasizes that the operation is occurring correctly.

FAQs

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

Use "able to operate" to describe something's capacity to function. For instance, "The new software is "able to operate" on multiple platforms."

What are some alternatives to "able to operate"?

Alternatives include "capable of functioning", "in working condition", or "ready for use", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "is able to operate" or "can operate"?

Both "is "able to operate"" and "can operate" are grammatically correct and often interchangeable, but "able to operate" may emphasize capacity, while "can operate" denotes a general ability.

What's the difference between "able to operate" and "allowed to operate"?

"Able to operate" indicates the capability to function, whereas "allowed to operate" implies permission or authorization. One refers to capacity, the other to authorization.