interoperate
/ˌɪn.təˈɒp.ər.eɪt/ IELTSAcademic
verb
To work together smoothly with another system, device, or software. It means the parts can share information or function together without problems.
- These apps interoperate with older systems.
- The new scanner interoperates with our database.
- Different platforms should interoperate easily.
Adinary Nuance
Interoperate is more technical than work together or cooperate. It is usually used for software, systems, and machines, not people. Writers choose it when they want to stress compatibility and smooth connection. It is close to integrate, but interoperate means the things remain separate while still working together.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- tương tác với nhau
- Spanish
- interoperar
- Chinese
- 互操作
- Japanese
- 相互運用する
- Korean
- 상호 운용하다
Etymology
Built from inter- + operate. It appeared in modern technical English in the late 20th century, especially in computing and engineering.
Common phrases
interoperate withinteroperate across platformsinteroperable systems
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is interoperate used mostly in technology?
- Yes. It is most common in IT, engineering, and system design.
- What is the difference between interoperate and cooperate?
- Cooperate is general and can describe people or groups. Interoperate is used for systems that function together.
- Is interoperate formal?
- Yes. It is formal and technical, so it is common in reports and business writing.
- Can I use interoperate in everyday speech?
- You can, but it may sound technical. Most people say work together or connect.