operation

op|er|a|tion [ ,apə`reıʃn ] noun ***

▸ 1 planned activity

▸ 2 actions to achieve something

▸ 3 cutting body medically

▸ 4 way something operates

▸ 5 (part of) company

▸ 6 controlling machine etc.

▸ + PHRASES

1. ) count a planned activity involving a lot of people, especially soldiers or police officers:

This was the biggest military operation in 20 years.

Undercover operations led to the arrest of the gang.

rescue/relief/cleanup operation: The cleanup operation will take weeks.

2. ) count an action or set of actions that is necessary to achieve something:

Connecting the water supply is a very simple operation.

The computer performs this operation many times every day.

3. ) count the process of cutting into someone's body for medical reasons:

a knee/heart operation

have/undergo an operation: The baby had to have an operation, but he's fine now.

operation on: She may need an operation on her knee.

do/perform/carry out an operation: A very experienced heart surgeon will perform the operation.

4. ) uncount the way that something such as a system or service operates:

We are visiting schools to explain the operation of the new exam system.

a ) used about the way a machine or piece of equipment operates:

Something was interfering with the radar equipment's operation.

b ) used about the way something such as a rule or an idea is used:

Science investigates the operation of general laws.

5. ) count a company or part of a large company:

The company has recently expanded its international operation.

The group is selling its overseas operations.

6. ) uncount the process of controlling something or making it work:

Operation of this equipment requires special training.

into operation

if something comes or goes into operation, it starts to work or become effective:

The new production plant went into operation last month.

put/bring something into operation: New legislation will be brought into operation in January.

in operation

1. ) working in the normal way:

How long has the business been in operation?

Only one of our telephone lines is currently in operation.

2. ) existing and having an effect in a situation:

Guidelines governing the use of e-mail are now in operation.