can operate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can operate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the ability or capacity to function or perform a task. Example: "The new software can operate on multiple platforms, making it versatile for users."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The other can operate completely independently.

The New York Times

"We can operate more quickly.

The New York Times

Can operate wide or centrally.

The Guardian - Sport

"Merchants can operate them at a profit".

The New York Times

Can operate anywhere in the world.

The Guardian

Then again, few people can operate a cellphone without looking.

The New York Times - Tech

A substitute field in Ecuador can operate only in daytime.

The New York Times - Magazine

These vehicles can operate anywhere in the UK, within reason".

The Guardian

"If you eliminate that, you can operate for less money.

The New York Times

This place can operate with live shows and special events.

The New York Times

I think the forces we have can operate there".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the capabilities of a system or device, use "can operate" to clearly state its functional abilities. For example, "This device can operate in extreme temperatures", which clearly conveys a specific feature.

Common error

Avoid phrasing that obscures the actor. Instead of "The system can be operated by anyone", prefer "Anyone can operate the system". This makes the sentence more direct and easier to understand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can operate" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating the ability, capacity, or permission to perform a specific action. Ludwig examples show it used across diverse subjects, from machines to organizations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

26%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can operate" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to express the ability or capacity to function, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's prevalent in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science, indicating its broad applicability. While alternatives like "is able to function" exist, "can operate" offers conciseness and clarity. When writing, aim for active voice constructions to enhance readability and specify the subject performing the action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is able to function

Replaces "can" with "is able to", emphasizing capability.

is capable of functioning

Similar to "is able to function", but uses "capable" for emphasis.

possesses the ability to perform

Formal alternative, highlighting the inherent ability to execute tasks.

has the capacity to work

Focuses on the inherent capacity to perform a task.

is operational

A concise way of stating that something is in a working state.

is designed to run

Emphasizes the intended operational design.

functions effectively

Highlights the efficiency and effectiveness of the operation.

can be utilized

Highlights the possibility of being used effectively.

is equipped to handle

Focuses on the preparedness and ability to manage specific tasks.

is in working order

Indicates that something is functional and ready to use.

FAQs

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

Use "can operate" to describe the ability of something to function or perform a task. For example, "This machine "can operate" 24 hours a day" shows its continuous functionality.

What are some alternatives to "can operate"?

Alternatives include "is able to function", "is capable of functioning", or "is operational", depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it correct to say "can be operate"?

No, "can be operate" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is ""can operate"", as "can" is a modal verb that directly precedes the base form of the verb.

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

While both phrases are similar, ""can operate"" is more concise. "Is able to operate" emphasizes the ability or capacity, sometimes implying a learned skill or acquired capability.