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Prepositions with nouns

Of operation or in operation?

In operation is a fixed expression meaning working or functioning. Of operation usually appears after another noun, such as method or cost.

Quick answer

Using operation with prepositions

Use in operation to describe machines, systems, or rules that are active and functioning. Use of operation after nouns that describe type, method, cost, or duration.

The factory is now in operation.
the cost of operation for the new system
The emergency plan remains in operation.

Choose the pattern by meaning

These forms are not interchangeable. Choose the construction by meaning, not by which preposition appears most often.

1
in operation

Showing that something functions

Use in operation for machines, systems, businesses, or rules that are active.

The elevators are in operation again.
The law has been in operation since July.
2
cost of operation

Talking about expenses

Use of operation after nouns that describe aspects of running something.

the cost of operation is rising
the efficiency of operation matters here
3
method of operation

Describing procedures

Use of operation to explain how something works or is organised.

the method of operation was unclear
their mode of operation changed recently

See the difference in context

The same subject can take different constructions because each sentence answers a different question.

Construction
Example
Meaning
in operation
The airport is back in operation.
Means functioning or active.
of operation
The cost of operation increased this year.
Links operation to another noun such as cost or method.

Common mistakes

Some combinations appear in real text but do not mean what learners often assume.

Using of operation for active systems

Use in operation when something is functioning.

✕ The machine is of operation. ✓ The machine is in operation.

Using in operation after cost

Use of operation after nouns like cost or method.

✕ the cost in operation ✓ the cost of operation

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. The heating system is now ___ operation.
2. The total cost ___ operation was lower than expected.
3. The old bridge is no longer ___ operation.

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Frequently asked questions

What does in operation mean?

It means active, working, or functioning.

Can I say of operation by itself?

Usually it follows another noun, such as method of operation.

Is in operation formal?

It is common in technical, business, and official English.

of, about, against, to or for racism? of, about, for, in or on friendship? of, about, for, on or to thing? of, about, for, to or with sex? of, about, on, to or for moon? "of access" or "with access"? "of accommodation" or "for accommodation"? "of accuracy" or "for accuracy"? "of action" or "in action"? "of actor", "with actor" or "by actor"? "of address" or "to address"? "of administration" or "in administration"?

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