Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

the-operative-word

Noun
/ðə ˈɒpərətɪv wɜrd/
Definition
The key term or phrase that is most relevant in a situation or context.
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.
Meaning
It refers to the specific word that carries the most significant meaning or importance within a discussion or text.
Synonyms
  • key term
  • important word
  • crucial phrase
  • essential wording