Què és operative? Què és operative? Being in effect; having force; operating: "Two major tendencies are operative in the American political system” ( Heinz Eulau). Functioning effectively; efficient.Engaged in or concerned with physical or mechanical activity.Of, relating to, or resulting from a surgical operation.Significant; most important; key: The operative word is "low-fat.” A skilled worker, especially in industry.A secret agent; a spy.A private investigator.One who works for a political organization, often wielding influence out of public view.