What is operation? Pronunciation and usage in English

operation means . Learn how to pronounce and use operation through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of operation

operationnoun

/ˌɒpəˈreɪʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of operation

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "operation" in English. It's a tricky one for non-native speakers! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

/əpərˈeɪʃən/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • əpər - This is pronounced like “uh-per”. The “uh” sound is a schwa sound (the most common vowel sound in English, like in “about”). The "r" is lightly rolled, but not a strong roll.
  • ˈeɪʃən - This is the trickiest part. It’s pronounced like “ay-shun”.
    • ˈeɪ - This is the "ay" sound, like in “say” or “play”. The apostrophe (ˈ) indicates the stressed syllable.
    • ʃən - This sounds like "shun," with a “sh” sound followed by “un”.

Putting it together:

It sounds roughly like: uh-per-AY-shun

Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "op-er-a-tion." This is a very common mistake. The "a" in "operation" is not the same as in "opera."
  • Don't overemphasize the “r.” It’s a subtle sound.
  • Listen to native speakers. The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced correctly. You can easily find audio examples online:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you more example sentences with the word "operation"?

Usage and examples with the word operation in English

Let's break down how to use the word "operation" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with several different meanings! Here's a breakdown categorized by its common uses:

1. As a Noun (Most Common Usage - a Procedure or Task)

  • Medical Operations: This is probably the most immediately recognized meaning. It refers to a surgical procedure.

    • Example: "The patient underwent a heart operation to replace a damaged valve."
    • Example: “The doctors are planning an operation tomorrow.”

  • Business Operations: In a business context, it describes the day-to-day running of a company or department.

    • Example: "Our marketing operation is expanding to include social media."
    • Example: “The company’s operation is now managed remotely.”

  • Military Operations: Refers to a planned military action.

    • Example: “The operation to secure the border was a success.”

  • Logistical Operations: Describes a planned and organized effort related to movement or delivery.

    • Example: “The operation to deliver supplies to the remote village was challenging.”

  • Technical Operations: Describes the running of a system or piece of equipment.

    • Example: “The IT operation needs to be upgraded.”

  • Short for a task or process: Sometimes it's used as a shorthand for a process or task.

    • Example: “Let's run an operation to clean up the database.” (Meaning: Let’s do a cleaning process.)

2. As a Noun (A Group of People Working Together)

  • A team or group working on something: This is a less common, but still valid, meaning.
    • Example: "The operation to stop the leak involved a team of engineers and construction workers." (Referring to the team, not just the task).

3. As a Verb (To Carry Out a Procedure)

  • To perform a task or procedure: This is the verb form.
    • Example: “The team will operate on the damaged equipment.”
    • Example: “The company is operating at a loss.” (Meaning: running at a loss)
    • Example: "The surgeon operated on the patient successfully."

4. As a Verb (To Control or Direct - Less Common)

  • To control or manage: This usage is more formal.
    • Example: "The general operated the troops with precision." (Meaning: controlled and directed them).

Key Differences & Considerations:

  • "Task" vs. "Operation": Sometimes you could replace "operation" with "task" or “process”. "Operation" often implies a more complex, coordinated, and potentially delicate undertaking.

  • Context is Crucial: The meaning of "operation" depends heavily on the context. Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand exactly what’s being referred to.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more specific advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about? (e.g., business, medical, military, general conversation?)
  • Do you have a specific sentence in mind where you want to use the word "operation"?

Synonyms for the word operation

Practice with vocabulary operation

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The seamless ________ of the new software system is crucial for daily productivity.
  2. The surgical team performed a complex heart ________ that lasted over eight hours.
  3. Effective project ________ requires careful planning and resource allocation.
  4. The factory's new safety protocols aim to reduce the ________ of workplace accidents.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following terms best describes the day-to-day activities and processes of a business? a) Strategy b) Operation c) Initiative d) Policy

  2. To describe a complex procedure involving the use of specialized equipment or surgical intervention, you might use which word(s)? a) Procedure b) Intervention c) Operation d) Undertaking

  3. The successful implementation of the global supply chain system will depend heavily on its efficient ________. a) Logistics b) Execution c) Functioning d) Operation

  4. When discussing the principles that guide an organization's behavior and decisions, which word is most appropriate? a) Regulations b) Procedures c) Policies d) Directives

  5. The primary goal of the new system is to enhance the ________ of data processing, minimizing manual errors. a) Accuracy b) Efficiency c) Reliability d) Effect

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The factory has started its production process for the new automotive parts. Rewrite (using "operation" or related word forms):

  2. Original: Before the system goes live, we need to ensure all components are working correctly. Rewrite (using "operation" or related word forms):

  3. Original: The security team carried out a meticulous plan to secure the perimeter. Rewrite (do not use "operation", use a suitable replacement word):

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. operation
  2. operation
  3. management
  4. incidence

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Operation
  2. a) Procedure, b) Intervention, c) Operation
  3. b) Execution, c) Functioning, d) Operation
  4. c) Policies
  5. a) Accuracy, b) Efficiency, c) Reliability

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The factory has commenced its manufacturing operations for the new automotive parts.
  2. Before the system becomes fully operational, we need to ensure all components are functioning correctly.
  3. The security team carried out a meticulous maneuver to secure the perimeter.

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