inoperative
/in'ɔpərətiv/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: - Not functioning or not in effect: Describes something that is not working, not operational, or not currently valid or enforceable.
Usage
The word "inoperative" is used to describe systems, laws, agreements, or mechanisms that are broken, disabled, or suspended. It indicates a state where normal function or legal force has ceased. - It is a formal term often used in legal, technical, and administrative contexts. - It typically functions as a predicate adjective (following a linking verb like is, was, became) or can be used attributively before a noun.
Examples
- The factory's security system was inoperative for three days.
- The treaty is considered inoperative until all parties sign the amendment.
- They discovered an inoperative clause in the old contract.
- Due to the power outage, all elevators in the building are inoperative.
Advanced Usage
- "To render something inoperative": To cause something to stop working or to nullify its effect.
- The court's ruling rendered the previous statute inoperative.
- "Declare something inoperative": To officially state that something is no longer in force or functioning.
- The agency declared the license inoperative due to non-payment.
Variants and Related Words
- Operative (adj): Functioning, working, or in effect. (Antonym)
- The new policy is now operative.
- Inoperability (n): The state of being inoperative.
- The inoperability of the machine caused a major delay.
Synonyms
- Nonfunctional: Not performing or able to perform its regular function.
- Defunct: No longer existing or functioning.
- Void: Having no legal force or effect; invalid.
- Null and void: Completely without legal force.
Antonyms
- Operative: Functioning; having force or effect.
- Functional: In working order.
- Effective: Successful in producing a desired or intended result; in force.
- Valid: Legally binding or acceptable.
Adjective
- not working or taking effect
- an inoperative law