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operative

[op-er-uh-tiv, op-ruh-tiv, op-uh-rey-tiv] / ˈɒp ər ə tɪv, ˈɒp rə tɪv, ˈɒp əˌreɪ tɪv /


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.

He plays Martian, a veteran CIA operative whose years undercover have left their mark.

From BBC • Jun. 20, 2026

Moment of Truth’s leadership includes Waters, a veteran GOP operative who worked on the presidential campaigns of Republicans George H.W.

From Salon • Jun. 17, 2026

“It’s certainly preferable to give all Americans the choice to invest in fast-growing tech companies, but choice is the operative word.”

From Slate • Jun. 15, 2026

“The operative word is not ‘resist’ — it’s ‘create,’ ” California Energy Commission Chair David Hochschild told hundreds of attendees at the Pacific Offshore Wind Summit in Long Beach recently.

From Los Angeles Times • May 24, 2026

“The operative words here are ‘past few days.’

From "Pride" by Ibi Zoboi




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