OPERANT Synonyms: 35 Similar and Opposite Words

operant

adjective

Definition of operant

as in efficient

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Dissimilar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of operant Bradfield probably could have parlayed that success into some sort of cushy position with Burnett, but his operant mode was reinvention. — Susan Orlean, The New Yorker, 18 Feb. 2022 As such, mobile games have developed into monsters psychologically tuned to rip thousands out of players vulnerable enough to be operant conditioned into a game addiction. — Clem Chambers, Forbes, 8 Nov. 2021 The current study investigated domestic cat preferences at the individual and population level using a free operant preference assessment. — Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2017

Recent Examples of Synonyms for operant

Adjective

More efficient micro-LED transmitters could eventually help data centers increase communication speeds without relying exclusively on power-hungry lasers.

— Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 30 Oct. 2026
Both Young and Packers quarterback Jordan Love attempted 41 passes, but Jordan Love was more efficient, completing 30 passes for 288 yards and three touchdowns.

— Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of efficient

Adjective

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Affordable and efficacious, this serum played a key role in fueling The Ordinary’s meteoric rise through the ranks of skin care.

— Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 12 Oct. 2026
Despite their reputation as one of the most efficacious skin-care ingredients on the market, retinoids are not without caveats.

— Rio Viera-Newton, Vogue, 23 July 2026

Definition of efficacious

Adjective

If we were left solely to the wordy wit of legislators in Congress for our guidance, uncorrected by the seasonable experience and the effectual complaints of the people, America would not long retain her rank among the nations.

— René Ostberg, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 Oct. 2026
Others argue even if wilderness therapy is effectual for some, its premise is flawed.

— Sara M Moniuszko, USA TODAY, 20 Feb. 2024

Definition of effectual

Adjective

Well before their endeavours in the shadow of a crumbling Motor City became intellectual fodder, first wave producers did play the commercial game when expedient.

— Gabriel Szatan, Pitchfork, 2 Nov. 2026
As much as the Brewers now seem like a cinch to win their first title in the most expedient fashion available to them (Milwaukee enters Game 4 as -125 favorites), there’s always a chance the 2026 Rays may live to see another day.

— Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 27 Oct. 2026

Definition of expedient

Adjective

Such a concentration of power could prevent the effective maintenance of checks and balances on policy decisions by institutions.

— Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 27 Oct. 2026
The effective ground game and fourth-down success helped Kansas run 86 plays to Baylor’s 66.

— Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 27 Oct. 2026

Definition of effective

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operant

operate

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“Operant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/operant. Accessed 3 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of operant

adjective

Example Sentences

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