操作

• Reading: そうさ
• Romaji: sousa
• Kanji breakdown: 操 (sou) — to operate, to handle; 作 (sa) — to make, to create, to work
• Pronunciation: /soː.sa/

Meaning

Operation; handling; manipulation. The act of operating or controlling a machine, device, or system.

A noun and suru-verb used for physical and digital operation of devices. 操作 covers operating machines, software, and systems. Common collocations include 操作する (to operate), 操作方法 (how to operate), and リモコン操作 (remote control operation). It can also mean manipulation in a negative sense, as in 世論操作 (public opinion manipulation). Not to be confused with 捜査 (criminal investigation).

Examples

1. このアプリの操作はとても簡単だ。 This app is very easy to operate.
2. 新しい機械の操作方法を教えてもらった。 I was taught how to operate the new machine.
3. パソコンの操作に慣れるまで時間がかかった。 It took some time to get used to operating the computer.

Usage Guide

Context: technology, workplace, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Composed of 操 (to operate, to handle, integrity) and 作 (to make, to create, to work). Together they refer to the action of handling or operating something.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal