operate
verb (used without object)
to work, perform, or function, as a machine does.
are operating
-
present progressiveof operate.present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Firm data comes with a lag, because many ships are operating without their transponders switched on to avoid becoming targets.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 4, 2026
But now they are operating at full capacity and are only able to make up for part of the shortfall.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 1, 2026
The results reveal the atomic-scale source of the catalytic activity and show why it is important to observe catalysts while they are operating under realistic reaction conditions.
From Science Daily ● Sep. 9, 2026
"Our system issue is now resolved, we are operating normally and working as hard as possible to clear the backlog of flights," it noted, adding "this is hugely frustrating and apologise unreservedly".
From Barron's ● Sep. 8, 2026
All day long I think about Erin and how strangers are operating on her leg, cutting it open, inserting pins or whatever to mend the bones.
From "Boy21" by Matthew Quick
