interoperability
/ˌɪntəˌɒp.ər.əˈbɪl.ə.ti/ IELTSAcademic
noun
The ability of different systems, devices, or software to work together and exchange information. It is important when tools from different companies need to connect smoothly.
- Our new app supports interoperability with old devices.
- Interoperability makes data sharing much easier.
- The team checked system interoperability before launch.
Adinary Nuance
Interoperability is not just “compatibility.” Compatibility means two things can work together, but interoperability also includes exchanging information smoothly. It is often used in technology, healthcare, and business systems. Writers choose it when they want to stress connection across different systems, not just basic working together.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- khả năng tương tác
- Spanish
- interoperabilidad
- Chinese
- 互操作性
- Japanese
- 相互運用性
- Korean
- 상호 운용성
Etymology
It comes from inter- meaning “between” and interoperability, built from operate and -ability. The word became common in computing and technology in the late 20th century.
Common phrases
system interoperabilityinteroperability standardscross-platform interoperabilityinteroperability testing
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is interoperability a common word in business writing?
- Yes, especially in technology, healthcare, and government writing.
- What is the difference between interoperability and compatibility?
- Compatibility means things can work together. Interoperability also means they can share information well.
- Is interoperability formal or informal?
- It is formal and common in technical writing.
- How do I use interoperability in a sentence?
- Use it for systems, apps, devices, or organisations that need to work together.