How to Pronounce Operative

To pronounce "operative", say OP-er-at-iv-e — 5 syllables, IPA /ˈɒpəɹətɪv/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

operative

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Accent

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Speed

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5

Syllables

9

Letters

/ˈɒpəɹətɪv/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “operative”

"operative" has 5 syllables: op-er-at-iv-e. It rhymes with inoperative and uncooperative, if that helps it stick.

What does operative mean?

noun

  1. An employee or other worker with some particular function or skill.
  2. A spy, secret agent, or detective.

adjective

  1. Effectual or important.

    “He's usually in a good mood — the operative word there being "usually". Today was a disaster.”

  2. Functional, in working order.

Words that rhyme with operative

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

inoperativeuncooperative

Related words

operantoperatingoperationalfunctioningworkingfunctionaleffectivesignificant

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "operative"?▾

"Operative" has 5 syllables: op · er · at · iv · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "operative"?▾

The IPA transcription of "operative" is /ˈɒpəɹətɪv/.

What does "operative" mean?▾

Operative: An employee or other worker with some particular function or skill.

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