started operating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'started operating' is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
For example: "The train service started operating in the early morning hours."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Brooklyn Grange, which started operating in 2010, runs a more low-tech, open-aired operation.

Huffington Post

We started operating that way.

The Guardian - Film

I started operating that evening.

The Guardian

Microfinance institutions have recently started operating in Myanmar.

The Economist

In Xishuangbanna the new Jinghong dam has just started operating.

The Economist

It started operating peculiarly a few years ago.

The New Yorker

The clock started operating on Dec. 1, 1924.

The New Yorker

(The company started operating a factory in Illinois in October).

The New York Times - Food

(New management has since started operating the course).

The New York Times - Travel

The company also started operating seven days a week.

The New York Times

In 2008, for example, a new venture started operating in Talvivaara, Finland.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the initial phase of a business or project, use "started operating" to clearly indicate the commencement of its functional activities.

Common error

Avoid using "starts operating" when referring to a past event. Use "started operating" to maintain correct tense and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "started operating" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of an activity, process, or business. It signifies the point at which something begins to function or provide a service. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "started operating" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase that indicates the beginning of an activity or process. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and widespread applicability across various domains. As shown by Ludwig, its usage spans from news and media to scientific reports, demonstrating its versatility and neutrality. When writing, it is important to use the correct tense to maintain clarity and precision. For those seeking alternative expressions, phrases like "began functioning" or "commenced operating" may serve as suitable substitutes, depending on the desired level of formality. Understanding the nuances of such alternatives ensures more effective communication in diverse contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

began functioning

This alternative emphasizes the start of functionality, similar to operating, but with a focus on the ability to perform a task.

commenced working

This implies the beginning of work or activity, providing a slightly more general alternative.

initiated operations

This phrase is more formal, highlighting the start of a planned activity or business process.

launched its services

This alternative is suitable when discussing the beginning of service provision, especially in a business context.

became active

This is a more general way to express the start of activity, applicable in various contexts.

entered service

Often used in the context of equipment or systems, this suggests the point at which something becomes usable.

put into operation

This suggests a more deliberate act of starting something, often after a period of preparation.

went live

Commonly used in technology and media, this indicates the point at which something becomes available to the public.

kicked off

This is an informal alternative, suggesting the start of a project or event.

got underway

This indicates the beginning of a process or journey, offering a more figurative alternative.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "started operating" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "commenced operating" or "initiated operations". These options convey a similar meaning with a more professional register.

What's a simple alternative to "started operating"?

A simpler alternative is "began functioning", which conveys the same idea in more straightforward language.

Is it correct to say "starts operating" instead of "started operating"?

The correct tense depends on the context. Use "starts operating" for present or future scenarios, and "started operating" for past events. For example, "The new system starts operating tomorrow," versus, "The system started operating last week."

What is a business-specific alternative to "started operating"?

In a business context, you might use "launched its services" or "entered service" to indicate the beginning of a company's activities.