Translation guide
The English verb "operate" covers several distinct meanings: running a machine, performing surgery, running a business, and functioning in a certain way. Japanese uses different verbs for each of these contexts.
To use, control, or make a machine or device work.
General term for operating machines, equipment, or systems. Neutral and widely used.
Please show me how to operate this machine.
He is good at operating computers.
Literally 'to move something'. Used for operating machines by making them move or run. More casual than 操作する.
Press this button and the machine will operate.
Means 'to handle' or 'to deal with'. Used for operating tools or equipment, often implying skill or careful handling.
He is qualified to operate heavy machinery.
To perform a surgical operation.
The standard term for performing surgery. Can be used for both the doctor operating and the patient undergoing surgery (with context).
The doctor operated on the patient's heart.
He was operated on for appendicitis.
Casual abbreviation of 'Operation', used in medical contexts. Common in hospital dramas or informal talk among medical staff.
I'm scheduled to operate this afternoon.
To run, manage, or conduct the activities of a business, system, or service.
Used for managing or running organizations, businesses, websites, events, etc. Focuses on the ongoing management aspect.
This company operates around the clock.
She operates an NPO.
Specifically for running a business, focusing on management and financial aspects. Often used for companies, stores, restaurants.
My father operates a small restaurant.
Means 'to carry out' or 'to conduct'. Used for operating services, flights, events, etc. More formal.
To function or work in a specified manner; to behave or act.
Used for machines, systems, or devices functioning. Emphasizes the mechanical or automatic operation.
The air conditioner is not operating properly.
Means 'to function'. Used for systems, organizations, or abstract things operating as intended.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to move' or 'to work'. Common in everyday speech for machines operating.
操作する is the most general and formal for operating machines. 動かす is more casual and implies physical movement. 扱う suggests skillful handling, often used for tools or equipment requiring expertise.
Operate the air conditioner with the remote.
Turn on the switch to operate the machine.
He can operate a forklift.
The loanword オペレートする exists but is not commonly used. It may sound unnatural or overly technical. Stick to the Japanese verbs listed above.
Do you know how to operate this machine?
The surgeon operated on her knee.
They operate a chain of coffee shops.
The machine operates on electricity.
その航空会社は国際線を毎日行っている。
The airline operates international flights daily.
The new system is not yet fully operating.
この時計は電池が切れて動かない。
This clock doesn't operate because the battery is dead.