in proper operating order

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in proper operating order" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to equipment, machinery, or systems that are functioning correctly and efficiently. Example: "Before we begin the experiment, we need to ensure that all the equipment is in proper operating order."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The machines arrived in operating order.

Princeton University

Under proper operating conditions, the volatile solids in biosolids are converted to CO2 and H2O (US EPA 2003).

Applied Water Science

No one, not even professional critics, lives through film history in proper chronological order.

The New York Times - Magazine

Inside every human cell, these molecular tools help ensure that DNA is in proper working order.

Science Magazine

We've confirmed that this one customer's account is in proper working order".

Huffington Post

Electroacoustic measurements were conducted on the hearing aids to ensure they were in proper working order.

BioMed Research International

The procedure might not be in proper chronological order.

WikiHow

Before seeing him, get your lips in proper kissing order.

WikiHow

They proposed two correlations in order to calculate the liquid-phase oxygen transfer coefficient and the minimum oxygen concentration in a microbioreactor, to provide insight into choosing the proper operating parameters in animal cell culture.

BioMed Research International

A quality control sample was included in each run to verify proper operating conditions were achieved.

BMC Veterinary Research

In every other way the ballot was in proper order.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When documenting equipment status, use "in proper operating order" to clearly communicate that the equipment meets all functional requirements and is safe for use.

Common error

Avoid using "in proper operating order" in casual conversation; simpler phrases like "working fine" or "functional" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in proper operating order" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically modifying a noun to indicate its condition. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is used to describe equipment, machinery, or systems that are functioning correctly and efficiently. It specifies a state of readiness and functionality.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

Academia

33%

News & Media

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in proper operating order" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, though relatively rare. As Ludwig AI states, it is best suited for technical or formal contexts to describe equipment or systems that are functioning correctly. While alternatives like "in good working order" or "fully functional" exist, "in proper operating order" conveys a more precise and assured level of functionality and safety. This phrase is commonly found across scientific, academic, and news media sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in good working order

Focuses more on the general condition of being functional, less formal.

fully functional

Emphasizes the completeness of the functionality.

in operational condition

More formal and technical, suitable for official reports.

in a state of readiness

Highlights the preparedness for use or action.

functioning correctly

Directly states the correctness of the function.

working as intended

Specifies that the item is performing its designed function.

ready for use

Highlights immediate usability.

serviceable

Indicates the item is fit for service or duty.

up and running

Informal way to say that something is active and working.

operational

A concise way to state something is ready to be used.

FAQs

What does "in proper operating order" mean?

The phrase "in proper operating order" means that something, typically a machine or system, is functioning correctly and safely according to its design specifications. It implies that all necessary components are working as intended.

What can I say instead of "in proper operating order"?

You can use alternatives like "in good working order", "fully functional", or "operational" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "in proper operating order"?

This phrase is best used in technical documentation, reports, or formal communications where precision is important. It is common in fields like engineering, maintenance, and safety.

Is "in proper operating order" different from "in working condition"?

While similar, "in proper operating order" often implies a more thorough assessment of functionality and safety, whereas "in working condition" might suggest a basic level of functionality. The phrase "in proper operating order" emphasizes adherence to specific standards.