Used and loved by millions
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
remain operative
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "remain operative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something continues to function or be in effect over time. Example: "Despite the changes in management, the original policies will remain operative until further notice."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Academia
Alternative expressions(5)
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
14 human-written examples
Thus, these systems are expected to remain operative with the maximum efficiency for the maximum duration to ensure their reliable operation.
Exit illumination, exit signs, and emergency lighting must remain operative.
Academia
They remain operative for many years, for decades".
News & Media
Three other communications links between the Koreas remain operative, including a telephone line at the truce village of Panmunjom.
News & Media
The Diet determined that no prince in the empire should make war against another on religious grounds and that this peace should remain operative until the churches were peacefully reunited.
Encyclopedias
It is believed to zero in on serotonin, blocking the removal of the important signal from the neurochemical loop in the brain and thus allowing serotonin to remain operative on neurons for a longer time.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
46 human-written examples
Abdeslam is the only remaining operative in the core group of Nov. 13 attackers thought to be alive.
News & Media
In TSB 5707-06 issued May 3, Volkswagen officials noted that while the handle may become stuck, the latch remained operative.
News & Media
In 1972 the United States returned Okinawa Island to Japan, although the extensive U.S. military installations there remained operative.
Encyclopedias
This statute remained operative until June 1940, when Spain took advantage of the fall of France during World War II (1939 45) to occupy the zone in the name of the khalīfah of Tétouan and to impose a Spanish regime on the city.
Encyclopedias
Clinton's Sherman-like denials from last spring remained "operative," an aide said Wednesday.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "remain operative" when you want to emphasize the continued functionality or validity of a system, rule, or agreement over a period of time. It's especially useful in technical, legal, or formal contexts.
Common error
Avoid using "remain operative" when simpler terms like "still works" or "continues to function" are more appropriate. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or stilted in casual contexts.
Source & Trust
89%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "remain operative" functions as a verb phrase, indicating that something continues to be in effect or capable of functioning. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, denoting a state of continued operation or effectiveness.
Frequent in
Science
40%
News & Media
30%
Academia
20%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
10%
Formal & Business
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "remain operative" is a grammatically correct verb phrase that signifies continued functionality or validity. According to Ludwig AI, it's a usable phrase in written English. While not overly common, it appears most frequently in scientific, news, and academic contexts, indicating a preference for formal and technical usage. When using this phrase, ensure that it aligns with the overall tone and register of your writing. Simpler alternatives might be more suitable in informal settings. Remember to use "remain operative" when emphasizing sustained functionality or validity is crucial to your message.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
Stay in operation
Emphasizes the active functioning of something, similar to "remain operative".
Continue in effect
Highlights the ongoing validity or applicability of something, rather than its operational status.
Remain in force
Typically used for laws or agreements, indicating they are still valid and legally binding.
Persist in operation
Similar to "remain in operation", but implies a longer duration or a continuation despite challenges.
Stay functional
Focuses specifically on the ability to perform a function, omitting the sense of being in effect or valid.
Hold good
Indicates that a rule or principle is still valid or applicable.
Maintain functionality
Focuses on preserving the ability to function, often used in technical contexts.
Keep working
A more informal way to express that something continues to function.
Endure
Implies surviving or lasting, often under difficult conditions, while still functioning.
Be sustained
Suggests support or maintenance is required for something to continue operating.
FAQs
How can I use "remain operative" in a sentence?
You can use "remain operative" to indicate that something continues to function or be in effect. For example, "The emergency generators will "remain operative" during the power outage" or "The original contract terms "remain in effect" despite the recent amendments".
What does "remain operative" mean?
"Remain operative" means to continue to function or be in effect. It implies that something is still working or valid.
Which is the best alternative to "remain operative" in a formal context?
In a formal context, consider alternatives such as "continue in effect", "stay in force", or "persist in operation".
What's the difference between "remain operative" and "still works"?
"Remain operative" is more formal and suggests continued validity or official function, while "still works" is more informal and simply indicates that something continues to function.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
89%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested