become operative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become operative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is starting to take effect or is becoming active, often in legal or formal contexts. Example: "The new policy will become operative starting next month, allowing for a smoother transition."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

This Agreement shall enter into force upon the date of signature thereof and shall remain in force until the date of termination of the supply contract but, subject to the provisions of paragraph 2, shall become operative upon the date of operation.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

These rights become operative upon nonpayment of the debt.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The California Evidence Code, presently in effect, did not become operative until January 1 , 1967

Cornell University

These measures will become operative as soon as they have been approved by the Governments of the High Contracting Parties.

Yale University

Thus, the principle of representation was established, but it did not become operative for decades to come.

Britannica

Several new treatment plants will become operative during Modi's term, and he will likely take credit for them.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

The Observatori de l'Ebre became operative in late 1904.

Advances in Space Research

He was thus in office before the supersedeas became operative.

Cornell University

But you won't have wasted your vote since your second-place vote now becomes operative.

The New Yorker

The convention became operative in 1961, and its original membership included France, Austria, Italy, the Netherlands, and Yugoslavia.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was also observed that a new type of dislocation motion becomes operative in this plateau region.

Acta Materialia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "become operative", ensure the context clearly indicates when and how the change to an active state occurs. Be specific about the conditions or events that trigger this transition.

Common error

Avoid using "become operative" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "start working" or "begin functioning" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become operative" functions as a verb phrase indicating the point at which something begins to function or take effect. As suggested by Ludwig, it signals a transition from a dormant to an active state. It commonly expresses a transition into a state of functionality or effectiveness, often in legal or technical contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "become operative" is a verb phrase that signifies the start of functionality or effectiveness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for formal contexts, particularly in science, news, and academia. While alternatives like "take effect" and "come into force" exist, "become operative" maintains a distinctly formal tone. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the triggering conditions and avoid overuse in informal settings. Although used correctly, it is important to check the context of writing, because "become operative" could sound awkward in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take effect

This alternative is more concise and commonly used, implying the start of something's effect or validity.

come into force

This alternative is typically used in legal or formal contexts, indicating the moment a law or agreement becomes binding.

go into effect

This alternative emphasizes the process of something starting to be active or applied.

become effective

This alternative focuses on the resulting state of being effective or capable of producing a desired result.

start functioning

This alternative emphasizes the beginning of proper operation or activity.

commence operation

This alternative is more formal and highlights the start of a planned or organized activity.

begin to operate

This alternative is a more literal and descriptive way to express the start of operation.

enter into service

This alternative is frequently used when machinery or equipment begins functioning.

become active

This alternative is more general and can apply to a wider range of subjects, not just formal systems.

kick in

This alternative is informal and suggests a sudden or noticeable start of effectiveness.

FAQs

What does "become operative" mean?

The phrase "become operative" means to start functioning or taking effect. It's often used in formal or legal contexts to indicate when a rule, system, or agreement starts to be active or enforceable.

What can I say instead of "become operative"?

You can use alternatives like "take effect", "come into force", or "go into effect" depending on the context.

Is "become operative" formal language?

Yes, "become operative" is considered formal language. It is best suited for legal, official, or technical writing rather than casual conversation. Simpler alternatives are more appropriate for informal settings.

How to use "become operative" in a sentence?

For example: "The new regulations will "become operative" on January 1st." or "The safety mechanisms will "become operative" in case of an emergency."