operationalize

USAGE SUMMARY

The word operationalize is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing planning or implementation of a strategy, process, or system in practical terms. For example, "We need to operationalize the new policy in order to ensure it is being implemented correctly".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Bridgman's ideal was to operationalize each and every concept if possible, and each case of de-operationalization rang alarm bells in his head.

SEP

But Howard Nielson, the lawyer for the defense, brought out a binder full of studies to make the argument that, as he put it, sounding like postmodern academic, "social scientists conceive of sexual orientation as a complex, multi-faceted phenomenon, and operationalize it in a variety of ways".

The New Yorker

"So how do you operationalize all of this?" he asks his staff.

The New York Times

At times, he spoke as if he were a management consultant, describing the next six months as Phase 2 of his governorship and talking of the need to "operationalize" his agenda.

The New York Times

The Army has gone so far as to embed credentialed social scientists with front-line troops in "Human Terrain Teams" that engage in "rapid ethnographic assessment" — conducting interviews and administering surveys, learning about land disputes, social networks and how to "operationalize" the Pashtun tribal code.

The New York Times - Books

"The question is, how do we actually operationalize that?

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Lisa Graves, the executive director of the Center for Media and Democracy, which runs a Web site called ALEC Exposed, says, "Unlike a think tank, ALEC operationalizes the agenda, nationally".

The New Yorker

Upon announcing the collaboration, in 2011, a Conservancy spokesperson declared that "nature is a source for sustainable business value," and the chairman of Dow expressed hope that the partnership would provide help in "operationalizing sustainability".

The New Yorker

The blockade prevented additional materiel from coming in but did nothing to stop the Soviets from operationalizing the missiles already there.

The New York Times

This can be a good change, but it is still not fully operationalized.

The New York Times

Ms. Mukherjee said, "What makes this proprietary is the way we've operationalized it to be a business strategy and not just about marketing".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "operationalize", clearly define the specific steps or procedures involved in making a concept or plan actionable to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "operationalize" without specifying the concrete actions that will be taken. Instead of saying "We need to operationalize sustainability", specify the exact initiatives, metrics, or changes required.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "operationalize" is that of a transitive verb. It describes the action of making something, typically an abstract concept or plan, capable of being put into operation or practical use. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and correct term in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

15%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "operationalize" is a verb that means to make something operational or to define a concept in a way that it can be practically measured. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically correct and frequently used in formal contexts such as news, science, and business to emphasize the conversion of abstract ideas into concrete actions. While not exceedingly common, the term plays a crucial role in strategic and planning discussions, calling for a specific and actionable plan. When using "operationalize", ensure clarity by defining the specific steps or procedures involved. Common alternatives include "implement effectively" and "put into practice".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

implement effectively

Highlights the successful execution and application of a strategy or process.

put into practice

Focuses on the practical execution of a plan or idea, emphasizing the transition from theory to action.

put into effect

Focuses on implementing or enforcing a rule, law, or plan.

make actionable

Emphasizes the act of making something capable of being acted upon or implemented.

translate into action

Stresses the conversion of ideas or intentions into concrete actions and results.

bring to fruition

Highlights the successful completion or realization of something planned, emphasizing the final outcome.

make functional

Emphasizes the act of making something capable of performing its intended function or purpose.

convert to reality

Emphasizes the transformation of something from a theoretical state to a tangible or real state.

make measurable

Focuses on defining concepts or variables in a way that allows for empirical observation and quantification.

turn into a system

Focuses on organizing or structuring a set of elements into a coherent and functioning system.

FAQs

How do you use "operationalize" in a sentence?

You can use "operationalize" to describe the process of making a concept or plan actionable. For instance, "The company needs to operationalize its sustainability goals by implementing specific, measurable initiatives."

What does it mean to "operationalize" a concept?

To "operationalize" a concept means to define it in terms of concrete, measurable actions or operations. This is particularly important in research and policy to ensure clarity and practical application.

Which is a better phrase, "implement" or "operationalize"?

While "implement" generally means to put a plan into effect, "operationalize" implies a more detailed and structured approach, focusing on how a concept is practically measured and executed.

What can I say instead of "operationalize"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "implement effectively", "put into practice", or "make actionable" to convey the idea of making something practical and measurable.