concept of operation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "concept of operation" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts related to systems engineering, military operations, or project management to describe how a system or operation is intended to function. Example: "The concept of operation for the new software includes user interaction, data processing, and reporting features."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

One thing we're talking about that could conceivably help -- and I think is interesting that it doesn't exist -- is joint ConOps, a concept of operation that's joint.

The New York Times

The concept of operation of the modified CFO is carefully selected from the literature.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

The concept of operation is structured in order to introduce the behavioral properties of the operations.

Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence

The proposed nonideal shortcut method includes a graphical representation and is based on the concept of operation leaves.

Separation and Purification Technology

Considerations of long-term performance stability lead to a design concept of operation at a low permeate flux rate and low permeate recovery.

Desalination

The existing concept of operation and superframe structure of IEEE 802.15.4 or IEEE 802.15.6 cannot be directly applied to emergency data handling in HBC-MAC protocol due to the lack of CS capability in HBC.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The Air Force says the orbiters, built by Boeing, "perform risk reduction, experimentation and concept-of-operations development for reusable space vehicle technologies," although details of the missions are secret.

Huffington Post

We stressed the number of sorties and timeframe envisaged under this concept of operations, but we should not expect to receive blanket clearance for all overflights.

The Guardian

Mr. Bush had received at least three briefings from General Franks on the broad outlines, or "concept of operations," for a possible attack against Iraq.

The New York Times

Within the next week or so, General Stanley McChrystal, the Nato and US commander, is due to unveil his new concept of operations and strategy for Afghanistan.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The insurgency was centrally planned but decentrally controlled," a Defense Department official said, describing the plan as less a detailed campaign plan than "a concept of operations".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about a "concept of operation", clearly define its scope and objectives to ensure readers understand the intended function or process.

Common error

Avoid using the term "concept of operation" without providing sufficient detail about the actual operation. Always follow up with specific information about the process, its goals, and its intended outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "concept of operation" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It defines a high-level view or strategic overview of how a system or operation is intended to work. Ludwig AI confirms its use in describing plans and strategies.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "concept of operation" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes the high-level plan or strategy for how a system or operation should function. Ludwig AI analysis confirms it is grammatically correct and appears frequently in scientific, news, and media contexts. Related phrases include "operational concept" and "operational strategy". When using this phrase, it is best practice to clearly define the scope and objectives of the operation. Avoid vague descriptions and always provide sufficient details. The phrase is generally neutral to formal, lending itself well to professional and technical discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operational concept

Reverses the order of the words without changing the meaning.

operational scheme

Replaces "concept" with "scheme", emphasizing a structured plan.

operational strategy

Substitutes "concept" with "strategy", highlighting the overall plan.

method of operation

Focuses on the specific way something functions or is carried out.

plan of action

Emphasizes the actionable steps involved in the operation.

working model

Implies a practical demonstration of how the operation functions.

blueprint for operation

Suggests a detailed design or guide for the operation.

design for operation

Focuses on the planning and structure behind the operation.

tactical approach

Highlights the specific methods used to achieve operational goals.

strategic framework

Focuses on the broader, overarching structure guiding the operation.

FAQs

How is "concept of operation" typically used?

The phrase "concept of operation" is used to describe how a system or process is intended to function, particularly in systems engineering, military operations, and project management. It provides a high-level overview of how things should work.

What's the difference between "concept of operation" and "operational plan"?

While both relate to planning, "concept of operation" is a broad overview, whereas an operational plan ("operational plan") is a detailed, step-by-step guide for executing a specific task or project.

What can I say instead of "concept of operation"?

Alternatives include "operational concept", "operational strategy", or "method of operation" depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "concept of operations" instead of "concept of operation"?

Yes, "concept of operations" is also correct and often used, especially when referring to multiple aspects or phases of an operation. However, "concept of operation" is acceptable when discussing the overall idea.