is operative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is operative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is in effect, functioning, or active, often in legal or technical contexts. Example: "The new policy is operative as of today, meaning all employees must adhere to the updated guidelines."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Another form of the two-party system is operative in Great Britain and in New Zealand.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the right-hand panel, similarity, another principle of organization, is operative.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Now that the agreement is operative, the parties will move towards the conclusion of a multi-party Concorde Agreement".

Independent

It is shown that a melt/recrystallization process is operative for both methods of blend preparation.

Polymer

A mixed mode of particle nucleation (monomer droplet nucleation and homogeneous nucleation) is operative during polymerization.

Polymer

Therefore, irrespective of the different Tafel slopes, the same mechanism is operative in both regions.

Electrochimica Acta

The third damage mechanism is operative in low porosity adhesives subjected to high residual stress.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

The same restriction is operative when the philosopher turns his culminating attention to a deity.

SEP

The disagreement between the universalist and the tropist is operative at a very basic ontological level.

SEP

The most common treatment of mechanical sternal instability is operative rewiring.

The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery

During this stage, the fact that the guidance service is operative and available is published.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is operative" when you want to emphasize that a particular mechanism, process, or rule is currently active and producing effects. This phrase is particularly useful in technical, scientific, or legal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "is operative" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "is working" or "is active" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is operative" functions as an adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun or noun phrase to indicate that something is currently in effect, functioning, or active. Ludwig AI shows this phrase is commonly found in scientific and formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

76%

Encyclopedias

8%

News & Media

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is operative" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective phrase, predominantly found in scientific, encyclopedic, and news contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates that something is in effect, functioning, or active. While versatile, it is best suited for formal writing and technical documentation. For more casual communication, simpler alternatives like "is working" or "is active" may be more appropriate. Remember to use this phrase when precision is important in indicating that a mechanism, rule, or system is currently in force.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is in effect

Emphasizes the commencement or current validity of a rule, law, or agreement.

is functioning

Highlights the active state and proper working condition of something.

is in force

Similar to "is in effect", often used in legal or formal contexts.

is active

Indicates a state of being operational or engaged in a process.

is working

Implies that something is currently performing its intended function.

is running

Suggests the continuous operation of a system or process.

is valid

Confirms the legitimacy and applicability of a rule or condition.

is applicable

Highlights the relevance and suitability of something in a particular situation.

is being implemented

Focuses on the process of putting something into effect.

is under way

Indicates that a process or activity has commenced and is progressing.

FAQs

What does "is operative" mean?

The phrase "is operative" means that something is in effect, functioning, or active. It's often used in technical, legal, or scientific contexts to indicate that a rule, process, or mechanism is currently working or being applied.

How can I use "is operative" in a sentence?

You can use "is operative" to describe a system, rule, or mechanism that is currently in effect. For example, "The new safety protocol "is in effect", meaning that all employees must follow it." or "The safety mechanism "is functioning" as expected.

What are some alternatives to "is operative"?

Some alternatives to "is operative" include "is in effect", "is functioning", "is active", and "is working". The best alternative depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "is operative" formal or informal?

"Is operative" is generally considered a formal phrase. It's more common in technical, legal, and scientific writing than in casual conversation. For informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "is working" or "is active" are more appropriate.