restored to working order

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "restored to working order" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that has been repaired or fixed so that it functions properly again. Example: "After several hours of repairs, the old machine was finally restored to working order and ready for use."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

It was cleaned and restored to working order.

The New York Times

Eight garbage trucks had been restored to working order.

The New York Times

It has since been restored to working order, and is used sometimes at night by U2 and other modern bandsmen.

The Economist

More than 1,000 parts were cleaned and restored to working order on the grounds of Mr. Banneel's atelier in Presles.

The New York Times

A disused stone quarry, the indispensable source of a rare configuration of sandstone swirls, had to be restored to working order.

The Economist

A 200-year-old bread oven has been restored to working order and is now producing loaves under the watchful eye of local women who know how it should be done.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Gunter worked hard to maintain order.

Los Angeles Times

Nothing could be done to restore it to working order.

The Guardian - Business

After two weeks of trying, NASA's boffins have been unable to restore Kepler to working order.

The Economist

Restoring them to working order would cost $1,500 and $2,200, but it might be worth it to get one in mint green with a lot of Raymond Loewy chrome.

The New York Times

Dan Andrews, a spokesman for Helen M. Marshall, the borough president, said she hoped to restore it to working order and install seating and modest landscaping around it, creating a tranquil place that pays tribute to outstanding women in history.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "restored to working order", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific actions or repairs were performed to achieve the restoration. This provides a more complete and informative picture for the reader.

Common error

Avoid surrounding "restored to working order" with excessive technical terms that may confuse the reader. Keep the explanation accessible and straightforward, even if the underlying repair process was complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "restored to working order" functions primarily as a descriptive phrase, detailing the status of an object or system after it has been repaired or renovated. It is commonly used to indicate that something is once again functional, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "restored to working order" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe the state of something that has been repaired and returned to a functional condition. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Wiki, and Science. While alternatives like "returned to operation" or "repaired and operational" exist, "restored to working order" effectively conveys the idea of renewed usability. When employing this phrase, ensure clear context and avoid excessive technical jargon to maintain accessibility. This phrase is a valuable tool for describing the recovery and revitalization of systems, machines, and processes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

repaired and operational

Highlights both the repair process and the resulting state of being operational.

returned to functionality

Focuses on the restoration of the ability to perform intended functions.

returned to operation

Emphasizes the act of resuming operation after a period of inactivity or repair.

back in service

Indicates that something is once again available for use or duty.

operational once more

Emphasizes the renewed state of being operational, highlighting the return to service.

made functional again

Stresses the action of making something functional after it had ceased to be.

refurbished and working

Highlights the refurbishment process leading to the restored working condition.

brought back online

Specifically refers to systems or devices being reactivated and connected to a network or power source.

reactivated

Implies a renewal of activity or function after a period of dormancy or deactivation.

returned to its former glory

More figurative, suggesting a complete restoration to a previous, optimal state.

FAQs

How can I use "restored to working order" in a sentence?

You can use "restored to working order" to describe a machine, system, or process that has been repaired or fixed and is now functioning correctly. For example, "After extensive repairs, the antique clock was finally restored to working order."

What are some alternatives to saying "restored to working order"?

Alternatives include "returned to operation", "repaired and operational", or "back in service", depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "fully restored to working order"?

While not strictly incorrect, "fully" may be redundant because "restored to working order" already implies a complete return to functionality. Consider if the emphasis is truly needed.

Which is more appropriate, "restored to working order" or "returned to service" when talking about equipment?

"Restored to working order" generally implies that repairs or fixes were needed, while "returned to service" simply means the equipment is available for use again, regardless of whether it underwent repairs. The best choice depends on the context.