操作

• Pinyin: cāo zuò
• Hanzi breakdown: 操 = 扌(hand) + 喿 (phonetic); 作 = 亻(person) + 乍 (suddenly, phonetic), meaning to make or do

Meaning

To operate; to handle. Refers to the process of controlling or using a machine, device, or system.

Widely used for operating machinery, software, and technical equipment. Also extended to describe performing a procedure or carrying out steps in any systematic process. 操作 emphasizes hands-on, practical action rather than theoretical understanding.

Examples

1. 这台机器的操作方法很简单。 The way to operate this machine is very simple.
2. 请按照说明书来操作这个设备。 Please operate this device according to the manual.
3. 他还不太会操作这个软件。 He still doesn't know how to operate this software very well.

Usage Guide

Context: technical, professional, everyday

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这个系统操作起来很方便。(This system is very convenient to operate.)
• 新员工需要学习基本的操作流程。(New employees need to learn the basic operating procedures.)

Don't Say

• 我来操作一下这道数学题 (Don't use 操作 for solving math problems — use 做 or 解; 操作 is for machines and procedures)

Origin & History

操 means to handle or control; 作 means to do or make. Together they form the idea of hands-on operation.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal