- 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.▸ + PHRASES1. ) 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 operationhave/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 operationif 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 operation1. ) 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.
Usage of the words and phrases in modern English. 2013.