1 [I,T] to work, or to make sth work 操作;操控;运作:
I don't understand how this machine operates.我不懂这部机器是怎样运作的。These switches here operate the central heating.这里的开关可控制中央暖气系统。 [SYN] function 同义词为function
2 [I,T] to do business; to manage sth 经营(业务);管理:
The firm operates from its central office in Bristol.那家公司由设于布里斯托尔的总部管理。
3 [I] to act or to have an effect 起作用;产生影响:
Several factors were operating to our advantage.当时有几个因素都对我们起有利的作用。
4 [I] operate (on sb/sth) (for sth) to cut open a person's body in hospital in order to deal with a part that is damaged, infected, etc (给某人身体某部位)动手术,开刀:
The surgeon is going to operate on her in the morning.外科医生将于早上替她动手术。He was operated on for appendicitis.他因阑尾炎而动了手术。