how it operated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "how it operated" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the functioning or mechanics of a system, process, or device. Example: "The engineer explained how it operated, detailing the various components and their interactions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

The Federal Trade Commission ruled on Thursday that Google had not broken antitrust laws, after a 19-month inquiry into how it operated its search engine.

The New York Times - Tech

He wanted to see how it operated its network.

Forbes

Writer tells about the commune in detail: its members, its work & how it operated including the therapy practiced on the disciples.

The New Yorker

Tells how it operated.

The New Yorker

He declined, however, to specify how much money was in the charity, or how it operated.

The New York Times

He never played in the N.H.L., but knew how it operated.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Hence, this knowledge should consider what a product is comprised of (its structure), how it operates (its dynamics), and how it interacts with the environment.

CIRP Annals

That's how it operates".

The New York Times

He describes how it operates.

The New Yorker

Tells how it operates and lobbying efforts for it.

The New Yorker

Not in imitating it but in watching how it operates.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a complex system or organization, use "how it operated" to clearly explain its internal processes and functions. Providing specific examples can enhance clarity and understanding.

Common error

Instead of stating "they knew how it operated", provide details about the specific operational aspects they understood. For example, specify which procedures, protocols, or systems were familiar to them.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "how it operated" functions as a relative clause, often serving as a noun complement or adverbial modifier within a sentence. It describes the method or manner in which something was functioning or being managed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "how it operated" is a relative clause used to describe the functioning or manner in which something was conducted. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It appears most frequently in news and media sources, with a neutral register suitable for various contexts. Related phrases include "how it functioned" and "the way it operated". When using this phrase, it’s important to provide specific details to enhance clarity and avoid vague generalizations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

how it functioned

Replaces "operated" with a more formal synonym, focusing on the basic working of something.

how it worked

Uses a simpler and more common term for "operated", suitable for less formal contexts.

the way it operated

Adds emphasis by specifying 'the way', focusing more on the method or manner.

its mode of operation

Transforms the phrase into a noun phrase, suitable for more technical or formal descriptions.

how it was run

Focuses specifically on the management and control aspects of operation.

the mechanics of its operation

Emphasizes the detailed, step-by-step processes involved.

its operational process

Highlights the process-oriented nature of the operation.

how the system operated

Specifies "system" to narrow the focus to organized or complex operations.

the manner in which it operated

Uses more formal language to describe the method of operation.

its method of functioning

Combines "method" with "functioning" to describe a particular approach.

FAQs

How can I use "how it operated" in a sentence?

Use "how it operated" to describe the manner in which something functioned. For example, "The manual detailed "how it operated" under different conditions".

What phrases are similar to "how it operated"?

Similar phrases include "how it functioned", "how it worked", and the "way it operated". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "how it operates" instead of "how it operated"?

Yes, but the tense changes the meaning. "How it operates" describes current or general functioning, while "how it operated" describes past functioning. Choose the tense based on the time frame you're discussing.

What is the difference between "how it operated" and "why it operated"?

"How it operated" explains the process or method, while "why it operated" explains the reasons or motivations behind the operation. For example, understanding "how it operated" helps you fix it, but understanding why clarifies its purpose.