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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
operating on the road
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "operating on the road" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of functioning or performing tasks while on a roadway, often in the context of vehicles or transportation. Example: "The delivery service is operating on the road to ensure timely shipments to customers."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
A few past studies have used such empirical approaches with some success but have generally been stymied by practical considerations including the lack of adequate translational relationships between the vehicles operating on the road and the vehicle classes typically considered in load analysis.
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
It is illegal to operate dirt bikes and ATVs on public streets in Maryland because they are not equipped with the same traffic signals and features that other road-ready vehicles have to safely operate on the road, county police Deputy Chief Christopher Murtha said.
News & Media
Vehicles operate on the road and some pedestrians cross it.
With respect to the ISO 2631-1 and European Union's A 8) and VDV 8) action limit values, both buses could be operated on the smooth freeway without exceeding the 8-hour action limits but would have to be operated less than 8 h when operating on the other road types.
Both machines were operating on the forest road.
Since then, four Muslim women -- all bus drivers for New York City Transit -- have been barred from operating buses on the road and reassigned to work inside bus depots because they refused to wear regulation caps over their head scarves, known as hijabs.
News & Media
As is required for Uber's autonomous test vehicles operating on public roads, the AV had a safety driver at the wheel.
News & Media
Only franchised tow companies, which have won yearly contracts, can operate on those roads, with rates set by the state.
News & Media
Snowcoaches may be operated on the Grand Loop Road from Canyon Junction to the Washburn Hot Springs Overlook.
Academia
But these were the real thing, operating on Long Island roads, and many had the potential to cause serious accidents.
News & Media
It is vital to reassure consumers that the cars operating on our roads are fully safe, legal and comply with all the latest emission requirements". Volkswagen scandal: Are car emissions tests fit for purpose?
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing vehicles or systems, use "operating on the road" to clearly indicate that they are functioning within a road environment. This helps distinguish from operation in controlled environments or simulations.
Common error
Avoid using "operating on the road" when describing actions that are merely adjacent to the road. Ensure the action or state directly involves the road surface or its immediate surroundings.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "operating on the road" functions as a descriptive phrase, often modifying a noun (e.g., vehicles, systems) to specify the location or context of the operation. Ludwig confirms its use in describing vehicles and transportation systems.
Frequent in
News & Media
40%
Science
30%
Academia
10%
Less common in
Formal & Business
5%
Encyclopedias
5%
Reference
5%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "operating on the road" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe something functioning or being in service on a road. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is often used in the context of vehicles, transportation systems, and autonomous technologies. While its register is generally neutral, it appears frequently in news and media, science, and academic sources. When using this phrase, ensure that the action or state directly involves the road itself. Alternatives like "functioning on the road" or "working on the road" can be used for similar meanings.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
functioning on the road
Replaces "operating" with a synonym emphasizing functionality.
in operation on the road
A more formal way to state that something is actively functioning.
working on the road
Substitutes "operating" with a common term suggesting active work or activity.
running on the road
Emphasizes the continuous activity of something on the road, replacing "operating".
in service on the road
More formal and specific, indicating that something is actively providing a service.
active on the road
Focuses on the state of being active rather than the action of operating.
traveling on the road
Highlights the act of traveling specifically, changing "operating" to traveling
moving on the road
Focuses specifically on the movement aspect, as opposed to overall operation.
transiting on the road
Emphasizes the act of passing through or across the road.
navigating the road
Highlights the aspect of directing or guiding something along the road, suggesting guidance or control is needed.
FAQs
What does "operating on the road" mean?
The phrase "operating on the road" refers to the act of functioning, running, or being in service while using a road. It's often used to describe vehicles, transportation systems, or other processes that take place on roads.
What are some alternatives to "operating on the road"?
You can use alternatives like "functioning on the road", "working on the road", or "in service on the road" depending on the specific context.
Is it grammatically correct to say "operating on the road"?
Yes, "operating on the road" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to describe the use of roads for transportation or other functions.
How can I use "operating on the road" in a sentence?
You might say, "Autonomous vehicles are now "operating on public roads" in several states" or "The company's trucks are "operating on the main roads" only during peak hours".
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested