operate by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "operate by" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to mean that something works or functions according to a specific system or rules. For example, "The store operates by a loyalty points system."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These operate by balancing two opposing forces.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The interrupters often operate by instinct.

The New York Times - Magazine

We tended to operate by consensus".

The Guardian

Prescriptive stereotypes also operate by race.

Harvard Business Review

They both operate by manipulating hopes and fears.

The Guardian - Opinion

Old Shef does not operate by normal limits.

The New York Times - Sports

"I operate by my guts and my fingertips.

The New Yorker

The National Governors Association tries to operate by consensus.

The New York Times

The single currency does not operate by empirical principles.

The Guardian - Business

Since elevators operate by electricity, they, too, must be excluded.

The New Yorker

that now, or may hereafter, own, operate by..

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a system or process, use "operate by" to clearly indicate the governing principles or methods. For example, "The algorithm operates by analyzing user data."

Common error

Avoid using "operate by" when you simply mean 'to use' something. "Operate by" suggests a system or set of rules, not just utilizing a tool or object. For example, avoid: 'The chef operates by a knife' when you should say 'The chef uses a knife'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "operate by" functions as a prepositional phrase, indicating the method, principle, or means by which something works or is governed. As Ludwig AI explains, it signifies how something functions according to a specific system or rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

23%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "operate by" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to describe the methods or principles guiding an action or system. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts. It is most common in News & Media and Science, as well as Encyclopedias sources. To use it effectively, ensure you're referring to a systematic function rather than a simple action. Consider alternatives like "function according to" or "be guided by" to add nuance. By understanding its grammatical function and communicative purpose, you can confidently use "operate by" in your writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

function according to

Focuses on the manner in which something works or is used.

work on the basis of

Emphasizes the underlying principles or foundation guiding the operation.

run according to

Implies a structured or regulated operation.

act in accordance with

Highlights conformity to rules, laws, or standards.

follow the principles of

Stresses adherence to a specific set of guiding beliefs.

be guided by

Suggests influence from a particular source or set of ideas.

be governed by

Implies control and regulation by a specified authority or set of rules.

adhere to

Focuses on strict compliance with rules or guidelines.

proceed under

Highlights the context or framework in which an action is carried out.

implement using

Focuses on the specific tools or techniques used to carry out a process.

FAQs

How can I use "operate by" in a sentence?

Use "operate by" to explain the method or principle that something follows. For instance, "The company "operates by consensus"" or "The machine "operates by electricity"".

What are some alternatives to "operate by"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "function according to", "work on the basis of", or "be guided by".

Is it correct to say "operated by" instead of "operate by"?

Yes, "operated by" is the past tense form. For example, "The system was "operated by" a remote control".

What's the difference between "operate by" and "run by"?

"Operate by" refers to the method or principle something follows, while "run by" typically refers to who is in control or manages something. For example, "The store is run by a local family," versus "The store "operates by a loyalty points system"".