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comparative more operative, superlative most operative
Effectual or important. examples
Functional, in working order. examples
Having the power of acting; hence, exerting force, physical or moral; active in the production of effects. quotations examples
It holds in all operative principles.
1692–1717, Robert South, Twelve Sermons Preached upon Several Occasions, 6th edition, volumes (please specify |volume=I to VI), London: […] J[ames] Bettenham, for Jonah Bowyer, […], published 1727
This call is operative not merely on the level of abstract theory.
1988 April 2, Phillip Brian Harper, “Lesbians and gay men of color, speak out!”, in Gay Community News, page 9
Producing the appropriate or designed effect; efficacious. examples
Based upon, or consisting of, a surgical operation or operations. examples
plural operatives
An employee or other worker with some particular function or skill. examples
A spy, secret agent, or detective. examples
A participant in an operation. examples