adjective Common

operational

op-uh-RAY-shuh-nuhl

Operational (adjective) means working and ready to be used. Example: “The new bridge is now fully operational.”

adjective

Working and ready to be used.

"The new bridge is now fully operational."

Relating to the day-to-day running of an organization or system, rather than its overall strategy.

"The team handles operational issues like staffing and supplies."

How to use operational

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishEither "up and running" or "related to how something is actually run day to day."

Common pairings

operational costs fully operational operational efficiency

Word forms

more operational comparative, most operational superlative

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The new bridge is now fully _____.

Etymology

From operation plus the adjective suffix "-al."

Synonyms

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functional working up and running in service active usable

Related words

working act operation active standing fit function useful

Rhymes for operational

coronal rational diagonal personal seasonal national optional regional hormonal fictional emotional irrational

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Frequently asked questions

What does “operational” mean?

The word “operational” means working and ready to be used. In plain terms, either "up and running" or "related to how something is actually run day to day.".

How do you pronounce “operational”?

“Operational” is pronounced op-uh-RAY-shuh-nuhl (/ˌɑ.pəˈɹeɪ.ʃə.nəl/ in IPA).

How do you use “operational” in a sentence?

Here is “operational” used in a sentence: “The new bridge is now fully operational.”

What part of speech is “operational”?

“Operational” is an adjective.

Is “operational” a common word?

“Operational” is a fairly common word in modern English.

How many meanings does “operational” have?

“Operational” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: working and ready to be used.

What is the difference between 'operational' and 'operative'?

'Operational' usually means working and ready for use, or relating to the day-to-day running of a system. 'Operative' overlaps in meaning but is also used as a noun for a worker or agent, and as an adjective it often stresses that something is currently in effect (as in 'the operative word'). In everyday equipment and business contexts, 'operational' is the more common choice.

When should you use 'operational' instead of 'strategic'?

Use 'operational' for the practical, day-to-day running of an organization or system, such as staffing, logistics, or routine processes. Use 'strategic' for the long-term goals and overall direction. Business writers often pair the two to contrast hands-on execution with big-picture planning.

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