Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
the-operative-word
Noun
/ðə ˈɒpərətɪv wɜrd/
![](https://vocabdictionary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/brand_identity-01.png)
Definition
The key term or phrase that is most relevant in a situation or context.
![](https://vocabdictionary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/migrate-02.png)
Examples
- In the sentence she used, ‘freedom’ was the operative word that captured her feelings.
- During the meeting, ‘collaboration’ emerged as the operative word for our project’s success.
![](https://vocabdictionary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ux-02.png)
Meaning
It refers to the specific word that carries the most significant meaning or importance within a discussion or text.
![](https://vocabdictionary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/text-file-font.png)
Synonyms
- key term
- important word
- crucial phrase
- essential wording