which operates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "which operates" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the functioning or mechanism of a system, device, or process. Example: "The machine, which operates at high efficiency, has significantly reduced our production costs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Two helicopter operators have bases at the airport: Bristow Norway, which operates two Eurocopter EC225 Super Pumas, and CHC Helikopter Service, which operates a Sikorsky S-92.

Wikipedia

which operates..

Cornell University

The Prince Hall on Dartmoor, which operates likea country house.

Independent

Brian Savage, director of Fun Publications, which operates "G.

The New York Times

In Kent, which operates selection, the gap is nearly 34%.

The Guardian

There is a Hebrew preschool, which operates every afternoon.

The Guardian

We own one called Hickory Tech, which operates in Minnesota.

The New York Times

Racing Assn., which operates the Big A and Saratoga.

The New Yorker

United, which operates in Taiwan, is certainly violating Taiwan's laws.

The Washington Post

Current systems use silicon, which operates within visible light frequencies.

MIT Technology Review

But Amtrak, which operates nearby, opposed the idea.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "which operates" to clearly identify the entity or system performing a specific function within a larger context, ensuring clarity and avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "that" when introducing a nonrestrictive clause; "which" is more appropriate when the clause provides additional but nonessential information about the subject. For example, write "The company, which operates internationally, reported record profits", not "The company, that operates internationally, reported record profits".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "which operates" functions as a relative clause, providing additional, non-essential information about the noun or noun phrase it modifies. This clause adds detail regarding the entity's actions or functions, enhancing the reader's understanding. As Ludwig AI explains, it is commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "which operates" is a very common and grammatically sound phrase used to add descriptive details about an entity's function. According to Ludwig AI, it's correct and usable in written English. It frequently appears in news articles, academic papers, and scientific publications. When using this phrase, ensure that the clause introduced by "which" is nonrestrictive, providing additional but nonessential information. While alternatives exist, "which operates" provides a clear and direct way to specify the activities or responsibilities of a subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that functions

Replaces "operates" with a more general term for functioning.

that runs

Suggests continuous operation, similar to a machine or system.

that manages

Focuses on the administrative aspect of operating something.

that controls

Implies authority and direction over something.

that executes

Highlights the performance or carrying out of tasks.

that handles

Emphasizes the act of dealing with something or someone.

that is responsible for

Clearly states accountability for the operation.

that oversees

Implies a supervisory role in the operation.

that maintains

Focuses on the upkeep and continuation of operation.

that is in charge of

Directly indicates the entity responsible for the operation.

FAQs

What does "which operates" mean?

The phrase "which operates" refers to an entity or system that performs a particular function or activity. It is often used in relative clauses to provide additional information about the subject.

How can I use "which operates" in a sentence?

You can use "which operates" to add details about how a subject functions. For example, "The factory, "which operates" 24/7, produces thousands of units daily".

What are some alternatives to "which operates"?

Alternatives include "that functions", "that runs", or "that manages" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "that operates" instead of "which operates"?

While sometimes interchangeable, "which operates" is typically used in nonrestrictive clauses, providing extra information. Using "that operates" may imply the information is essential to identifying the subject. It's more grammatically correct to use "which" in this case.