operationally
/ˌɒp.əˈreɪ.ʃən.əl.i/ IELTSAcademic
adverb
In a way that relates to how something works in practice. It is often used in business, engineering, and planning.
- Operationally, the system is ready.
- We need to fix this operationally, not just on paper.
- Operationally, the change saves time.
Adinary Nuance
Operationally is close to practically and in practice, but it sounds more formal and technical. Writers use it when they mean 'in actual operation' or 'for day-to-day functioning.' It is less about general usefulness and more about how something works on the ground.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- về mặt vận hành
- Spanish
- operativamente
- Chinese
- 在操作上
- Japanese
- 運用上
- Korean
- 운영상
Etymology
From operational + -ly. Operational came into English in the 19th century from operation, via Latin operatio, meaning 'a working' or 'a doing'.
Common phrases
operationally readyoperationally soundoperationally efficientoperationally difficult
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is operationally formal or informal?
- It is fairly formal. You will see it more in reports, meetings, and academic writing than in casual speech.
- What is the difference between operationally and practically?
- Operationally focuses on how something works in real use. Practically means in a useful or sensible way.
- Can I use operationally in IELTS Writing?
- Yes, if you are writing about systems, plans, or procedures. It fits formal and academic topics well.
- Is operationally common in everyday English?
- It is not very common in daily conversation. People often choose simpler words like practically or in practice.