operate a crane

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "operate a crane" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe the action of controlling or maneuvering a large lifting machine or equipment. Example: The construction workers need to be skilled and trained to safely operate a crane on the site.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Two workers operate a crane to load castings onto the machining system.

MIT Technology Review

He plowed his last $4,000 into a two-week course on how to operate a crane.

The New York Times

One former official with the crane operators' union told the court in Manhattan that he believed roughly a third of them could not operate a crane.

The New York Times

During their two weeks in the laboratory, the aquanauts will go on simulated spacewalks, operate a crane and perform other tasks of the sort astronauts would face in setting up a habitat on another planet.

The New York Times - Science

Why would we continue to allow this union to dictate who can operate a crane in New York?" Three years ago, previous leaders of Local 14 came under fire for their ties to organized crime.

The New York Times

"People think we just sit up there pulling a lever in between doing nothing, but you have to be on the ball and competent to operate a crane," he says.

The Guardian - Money

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Compared with other types of equipment, operating a crane is more sophisticated and mentally demanding, and thus crane operators are more vulnerable to human errors.

Automation in Construction

A woman operated a crane, Jordaan noted.

The New York Times - Sports

He operates a crane for a construction company in Hackensack.

The New York Times

One juror, a dainty woman who operates a crane, arrived in the metropolis at age 20 with a single suitcase.

The New York Times

Operating a crane is one of the most challenging construction jobs, requiring calm, patience, precision and a highly specialized skill.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about crane operation, specify the type of crane (e.g., tower crane, mobile crane) for clarity, especially in technical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "operate" when you mean "maintain". "Operate" refers to the act of using the crane, while "maintain" refers to the upkeep and repair of the crane. For example, say "He knows how to operate the crane safely", not "He knows how to maintain the crane safely" if you mean he knows how to use it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "operate a crane" functions primarily as a verb phrase, describing the action of controlling and using a crane. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Examples in Ludwig show it used to describe a job, a task, or a skill.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "operate a crane" is a grammatically correct and commonly used verb phrase to describe the action of controlling a crane. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, highlighting its frequent use in News & Media and Science contexts. It maintains a neutral register, making it versatile for various forms of communication. When using the phrase, it's important to be precise about the type of crane and to avoid confusing "operate" with "maintain". Alternatives include "control a crane" or "maneuver a crane", depending on the intended nuance. The examples from Ludwig provide valuable context for understanding its appropriate usage in different scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

control a crane

Focuses on the aspect of command and direction of the crane's functions.

maneuver a crane

Highlights the skill and precision involved in moving the crane.

drive a crane

Uses "drive" as an analogy to operating vehicles, suggesting direct control.

handle a crane

Emphasizes the management and handling aspects of the crane.

work a crane

Highlights the action of using the crane, suggesting it's part of one's job.

utilise a crane

Implies putting the crane to practical use for specific tasks.

employ a crane

Stresses the utilization of the crane as a tool or resource.

manage a crane

Shifts focus to the oversight and organization of the crane's operation.

administer a crane

More formal, suggesting a regulated or systematic operation of the crane.

pilot a crane

Analogous to piloting an aircraft; emphasizes precision and skill.

FAQs

How is "operate a crane" used in a sentence?

You can use "operate a crane" to describe someone's job or a task they are performing. For example, "She is licensed to operate a crane" or "Workers operate a crane to lift heavy materials".

What are some synonyms for "operate a crane"?

Alternatives include "control a crane", "maneuver a crane", or "handle a crane", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "operating a crane" instead of "operate a crane"?

Yes, "operating a crane" is correct. It's the gerund form of the verb and can be used as a noun. For example, "Operating a crane requires specialized training".

What skills are needed to "operate a crane" safely?

Operating a crane safely requires skills such as precision, spatial awareness, understanding of load limits, and adherence to safety protocols. Training and certification are typically required.