Operative
adj.capable, resilientformal
What it means
Working effectively and ready to serve its purpose.
Reach for it when describing a rule, factor, or device as currently working or effective
The backup generator remained operative throughout the storm.
Choose between these
6- everyday
the thing is presently engaged or enabled
not when Active status can coexist with malfunction.
- everyday
plain language should confirm function
not when Working may mean employed rather than functional.
- professional
the rule or factor produces its intended result
not when Effective does not necessarily mean currently in force.
- professional
equipment performs the required task
not when Functional does not fit a legal clause.
- professional
in force
a rule or agreement currently has legal effect
not when Machinery cannot sensibly be described this way.
- formal
a factor determines the outcome
not when A decisive factor need not be mechanically operative.
Said against
3- inoperative
- ineffective
- dormant
It naturally appears in
3- fully operative
The backup generator remained fully operative during the storm.
- operative provision
The operative provision takes effect at the start of May.
- operative factor
Trust became the operative factor in the final decision.
Where this comes from
Operative has legal, causal, medical, and mechanical uses; a more specific alternative is often clearer.
- wiktionary, English adjective, functioning or having effect sense opens in a new tab · retrieved 2026-07-27
The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.