does not operate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "does not operate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is not functioning or is inactive. Example: "The machine does not operate when the power is off."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It does not operate like one.

The Economist

Wedinos does not operate in clubs.

Independent

Priceline does not operate any hotels.

The New York Times

McNabb does not operate that way.

The New York Times - Sports

Factory does not operate on Sundays.

The New York Times - Travel

Factory does not operate on weekends.

The New York Times - Travel

The council does not operate furniture pyres.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Sprewell does not operate on timetables.

The New York Times - Sports

The factory does not operate on weekends.

The New York Times - Travel

The national government does not operate prisons.

The New York Times

But business does not operate in a vacuum.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "does not operate" with more specific alternatives like "is not functioning" or "is inoperative" to provide greater detail about the nature of the problem.

Common error

Avoid using "does not operate" in informal contexts where simpler language like "isn't working" would be more appropriate. Choose language that matches the audience and purpose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "does not operate" primarily functions as a declarative statement indicating that something is not in a working condition or is unable to perform its intended function. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase is grammatically correct and versatile. It is used to describe the state of machines, systems, organizations, or even abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

18%

Science

17%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "does not operate" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that conveys the lack of functionality or activity of a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, its versatility allows it to be used across diverse contexts, though it tends to lean towards a neutral to formal register. It commonly appears in News & Media, Academia, and Science, as demonstrated by the examples provided by Ludwig. When writing, consider the level of formality required and choose more specific alternatives like "is not functioning" or "is inoperative" when appropriate to provide more detail. Being precise about what "does not operate" and why improves the clarity of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not functional

Replaces 'operate' with 'functional', emphasizing the lack of proper working order.

is inoperative

Uses a single word to convey the meaning of not being in working condition.

is out of service

Indicates a temporary or permanent removal from active use or operation.

is not working

A more general way of saying that something is not functioning correctly.

is not running

Implies that a system or machine is not currently active or in a running state.

is shut down

Suggests a deliberate action to stop the functioning of something.

is inactive

Highlights a state of being not active or engaged in its intended function.

is disabled

Indicates that something has been rendered unable to perform its function.

is non-operational

A more formal way to express that something is not in a state to operate.

is not in use

Focuses on the lack of current usage rather than the ability to function.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "does not operate" for clarity?

Consider using alternatives like "is not functional", "is inoperative", or "is out of service" to provide more specific information about the non-operational status.

What is the difference between "does not operate" and "is not working"?

"Does not operate" is generally more formal and suggests a complete inability to function. "Is not working" is broader and can refer to partial or temporary malfunctions. The choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.

When is it best to use "does not operate" in writing?

Use "does not operate" in technical manuals, formal reports, or official announcements where precision and a professional tone are required. In casual conversation, simpler phrases are generally preferred.

Are there specific situations where "does not operate" is preferred over other alternatives?

Yes, particularly when describing complex systems or machinery where the term "operate" has a technical or defined meaning. For instance, "The backup generator does not operate during peak hours" conveys a specific operational limitation.