operate in sync

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "operate in sync" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the coordinated functioning of multiple elements or systems working together harmoniously. Example: "The two software applications need to operate in sync to ensure data consistency across platforms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

I don't buy the vendetta charge; it suggests that the different parts of this newspaper operate in sync, when my seven months here have convinced me that the various departments are as carefully coordinated as Manhattan traffic in a thunderstorm.

The New York Times

The combination of a feature-rich basic robot unit plus the ability to augment and extend functionality — with support for programming via Ardunio IDE, Phyton, Java and the kid-friendly Scratch language, and the ability for multiple mOwayduinos to talk to each other and operate in sync — suggests this tech will easily kick Big Track's ass.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The Jackson deal was just the latest coup from a pair who are putting on a leadership display that is rare in any industry, outside of family-run businesses: a man and woman, equal partners, at the helm, and operating in sync.

The New York Times

The simulator operates in sync with the actual movements of the bus.

Vice

The mission controllers overseeing NASA's Mars rover Curiosity are finally switching back to working on Earth time after three months of operating in sync with the Red Planet, where the Martian days last 24 hours and 39 minutes.

Huffington Post

Google is not alone in working towards a way to bring its touch-first, mobile-friendly operating system work in sync with its desktop efforts.

TechCrunch

The sync system and software environment layout is flexible enough to accommodate the wide variety of IT environments that SBGrid member laboratories operate in and has proven to be robust and scalable.

eLife

In her insistence on recognizing the social value of religion, rather than merely disparaging it as superstition for saps, Ms. MacBain operates very much in sync with her boss, Greg M. Epstein, the humanist chaplain at Harvard.

The New York Times

One Direction operates in the tradition of fresh-faced, spit-shined outfits like the Beatles, New Kids on the Block, and 'N Sync.

The New York Times

THESE are economically stressful times, no question, but lately I have had the reassuring sense that my husband and I are really operating as a team, staying in sync around day-to-day expenses.

The New York Times

The two earphones communicate with one another using short bursts of near-field signals (these are electromagnetic transmissions that emit around 1000 times less radiation than Bluetooth) but actually operate independently, with the music kept in sync with "high precision clocks".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing complex systems or teams, use "operate in sync" to highlight the importance of coordinated action and efficient interaction between components. It suggests more than just working together; it implies a deep level of synchronization.

Common error

Avoid using "operate in sync" when simpler terms like "work together" or "cooperate" suffice. This phrase is most effective when emphasizing the intricacy of the coordination, such as when describing software systems or highly specialized teams.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "operate in sync" functions as a verb phrase describing how entities or systems function together. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. Examples show it describing software, teams, and even mission controllers coordinating with the Mars rover.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "operate in sync" is a grammatically correct and usable verb phrase, as validated by Ludwig AI, that describes coordinated and harmonious functioning. While not overly common, it effectively conveys the importance of synchronized action, especially in complex systems. Use it to highlight the intricacies of coordination, particularly in news reporting, science, and formal business contexts. Remember that simpler terms may suffice in less demanding scenarios. Consider alternatives like "function harmoniously" or "coordinate effectively" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

function harmoniously

Focuses on the smooth and agreeable operation of elements.

work in harmony

Highlights the agreeable and coordinated manner of working.

work together seamlessly

Emphasizes the effortless and smooth nature of collaboration.

coordinate effectively

Focuses on the efficiency and success of the coordination.

function in unison

Stresses simultaneous and synchronized action.

act in concert

Highlights a joint action with shared goals.

collaborate smoothly

Emphasizes effortless and efficient collaborative efforts.

synchronize operations

Focuses on bringing operations into a synchronized state.

align efforts

Emphasizes the act of bringing different efforts into a common direction.

harmonize actions

Stresses making actions agreeable and consistent with each other.

FAQs

What does "operate in sync" mean?

The phrase "operate in sync" means to function together in a coordinated and harmonious way, where different elements or systems work together efficiently and without conflict. It implies a level of synchronization and agreement in their actions.

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

You can use "operate in sync" to describe how different parts of a system, team, or organization work together effectively. For example: "For the project to succeed, all departments must "operate in sync"".

What are some alternatives to "operate in sync"?

Alternatives to "operate in sync" include "function harmoniously", "work in harmony", or "coordinate effectively". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "operate in sync" formal or informal language?

"Operate in sync" is generally considered neutral to professional language and suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it's most effective in situations where precise coordination is important. It is less casual than everyday terms like "get along".