Synonyms of operates

operates

verb

present tense third-person singular of operate

1

as in uses

to control the mechanical operation of

do not operate heavy machinery, including cars, after taking this medication

Synonyms & Similar Words

• uses
• handles
• works
• runs
• manipulates
• drives
• wields
• controls
• maneuvers
• directs
• steers
• guides
• plies
• pilots
• commands

2

as in manages

to look after and make decisions about

it takes years to learn how to operate that kind of business so that it makes money

Synonyms & Similar Words

• manages
• supervises
• oversees
• regulates
• conducts
• handles
• runs
• controls
• governs
• administers
• directs
• tends
• keeps
• protects
• administrates
• guides
• overlooks
• superintends
• presides (over)
• watches over
• carries on
• steers
• leads
• watches
• stewards
• cares (for)
• safeguards
• minds
• pilots
• guards
• micromanages
• stage-manages
• codirects
• comanages

3

as in works

to produce a desired effect

the medicine will take an hour or so to operate the first time you use it

Synonyms & Similar Words

• works
• performs
• takes
• reacts
• acts
• responds
• takes effect
• behaves
• affects
• takes hold
• results
• influences
• sways
• redounds
• pans out

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• backfires
• fizzles

4

as in applies

to put into action or service

wouldn't dream of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol

Synonyms & Similar Words

• uses
• applies
• utilizes
• employs
• exploits
• harnesses
• exercises
• draws on
• wields
• handles
• manipulates
• makes use of
• brings to bear
• works
• directs
• runs
• recycles
• reuses
• cannibalizes

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• ignores
• neglects
• misapplies
• misuses

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of operates

The company operates mobile and broadband networks as well as the MOD IPTV service and the Hami Video streaming platform, which together have more than 3 million subscribers. — Lin Ying-Hsuan, Variety, 7 Nov. 2026

In Colorado, the chain operates more than 10 restaurants, with locations spanning from Colorado Springs to Arvada. — Jessica Alvarado Gamez, Denver Post, 7 Nov. 2026

The nonprofit American Farmland Trust released its list of the top farmers markets based on nationwide votes, according to a news release from the Midtown Association which owns and operates the market. — Kat Tran november 7, Sacbee.com, 7 Nov. 2026

One mechanical arm grips a branch while the other operates the chainsaw. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 7 Nov. 2026

And American Airlines operates almost twice as many daily flights out of its gates compared to the average user at CLT, according to the airline. — Charlotte Observer, 7 Nov. 2026

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, which operates the park, announced Friday that the park's final day of operation will be on Labor Day, September 6. — Tim Fang, CBS News, 6 Nov. 2026

The company says its sodium-ion platform operates with passive cooling, eliminating the need for those systems. — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2026

Technically not in Lofoten, but well worth extending your trip for, Kvitnes Gard is a historic estate in Hadsel, Vesterålen, that operates as a 15-room farm hotel. — Arati Menon, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 Oct. 2026