they are operating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase “they are operating” is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a group of people or organizations who are actively engaged in a certain activity or process, such as: "The team of scientists are operating sophisticated equipment to analyze the sample."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are operating brilliantly.

The New York Times - Sports

Workers here say they are operating more by consensus.

The New York Times

They are operating like an actual N.F.L. team.

The New York Times

"They are operating in much more dangerous environments".

The New York Times

"Now they are operating with a lower profile," he said.

The New York Times - Magazine

They are operating with less than 1percentt now.

The New York Times

"The problem is that they are operating in a difficult political environment with general German hostility.

The New York Times

"They are operating under an outdated and misguided understanding of what trans-health care means".

The New York Times

Yes, they are operating out of North Waziristan and other areas of the sanctuaries.

The New York Times

They are operating under the assumption that Andy Pettitte will retire.

The New York Times - Sports

They are operating in places that have been contaminated by radioactive isotopes from all four reactors.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they are operating", ensure the context clearly defines who "they" refers to. This avoids ambiguity and makes your writing more precise.

Common error

Avoid using "they are operating" when the subject is singular or inanimate. Ensure the subject is a plural entity capable of performing actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are operating" functions as a verb phrase in the present continuous tense. It describes an action that is currently in progress or ongoing. Ludwig AI confirms this construction is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "they are operating" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase to describe a group currently performing an action. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. It appears frequently in news, scientific, and business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in defining "they" and avoid using it with singular or inanimate subjects. Alternatives such as "they are functioning" or "they are running" can be used depending on the specific context. The phrase is versatile and readily understood, making it a reliable choice for describing ongoing activities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are functioning

Focuses more on the state of being in working order rather than the act of performing an action.

they are running

Implies a continuous process or management of something, often a business or system.

they are in operation

Emphasizes the state of being active or functional.

they are working

A more general term indicating activity or effort, not necessarily a specific system running.

they are performing

Highlights the execution of a specific task or duty.

they are executing

Suggests carrying out a plan or order, often with precision.

they are managing

Focuses on control and direction, rather than the actual performance.

they are handling

Indicates dealing with or taking care of something, often a problem or situation.

they are utilizing

Highlights the use of resources or tools to achieve a goal.

they are implementing

Focuses on putting a plan or system into effect.

FAQs

How can I use "they are operating" in a sentence?

Use "they are operating" to describe a group actively performing a function, such as "The surgeons "they are operating" on the patient now".

What are some alternatives to "they are operating"?

Alternatives include "they are functioning", "they are running", or "they are performing", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "they are operate" instead of "they are operating"?

No, "they are operate" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "they are operating", which uses the present continuous tense.

What's the difference between "they operate" and "they are operating"?

"They operate" describes a habitual or general action, while "they are operating" indicates an action happening at the moment or within a specific timeframe.