operation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
operation Word Meanings
- a process of working or functioning
- a medical procedure
- a specific task or action that produces results
operation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
operation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌɒpəˈreɪʃən/
US
/ˌɑpəˈreɪʃən/
operation Word Etymology
Oper- = work + -ation = process or result. Originated from Latin 'operatio', evolved through Old French 'operation' to English. Imagine a surgeon meticulously working in an operating room, conducting various operations to heal patients, emphasizing the careful process involved.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Gripping the switch, I let the dial turn under my finger. The operation begins as the machine hums and gears move. I adjust my stance, slow my breathing, and keep the pace steady as parts click into place. When the task finishes, I measure the result and carry that careful push into the next job.
Real Context
Operation has several common meanings in English. It can describe a process of working or functioning inside a system, such as how a company’s daily operation keeps production lines running. It can also refer to a medical procedure, for example a surgical operation performed to repair or remove something inside the body. In addition, operation can mean a specific task or action that produces results, such as performing a mathematical operation or a strategic operation in business. The word comes from Latin operatio, via Old French operation, emphasizing the act of work and its result.
Usage Reminders
- • Remember operation has multiple senses beyond surgery.
- • Distinguish operation (noun) from operate (verb) and operational (adj).
- • Note common collocations: daily operation, medical operation, mathematical operation.
- • Pay attention to context when translating (operating vs operating room vs operation).
- • Use plural 'operations' for multiple instances or types of work.
Common Misconceptions
- Operation means surgery only.
- Operation is always a single action rather than a process.
- Operation and operator have the same meaning.
- In math, operation only means adding or subtracting.
- Operational automatically implies nearby or immediate action.
Thinking Differences
English tends to keep operation as a flexible umbrella term for both ongoing processes and discrete procedures, so learners must pay attention to context and collocations to avoid confusion with words like operate and operational.
Learning Tips
- Learn the three core senses: process, procedure, and task.
- Build collocations: daily operation, medical operation, mathematical operation.
- Differentiate operation from operate (verb) and operational (adj).
- Study context cues to translate appropriately.
- Practice with real-world examples from business, medicine, and math.
- Pronounce with stress on the second syllable: op-ER-ation.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'operation'?
A.Rainbow
B.Procedure
C.Explosion
D.Journey
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'operation' correctly?
A.The cat had an operation on its favorite toy.
B.Yesterday, I rode an operation to the park.
C.She likes to sing during operation.
D.The book was filled with operation.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to the word 'operation'?
A.Giraffe
B.Surgery
C.Dance
D.Mountain
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'operation'?
A.Silence
B.Laughter
C.Inaction
D.Speed
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'operation'?
A.The chef preparing a new recipe
B.A bird building a nest
C.A musician playing a concert
D.A firefighter rescuing a cat
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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