Handle
Handle verb - To control the mechanical operation of.
Usage example: learned how to handle basic woodworking power tools
Operate is a synonym for handle in control topic. In some cases you can use "Operate" instead a verb "Handle", when it comes to topics like manage, activity, work, use. popular alternative
Operate
Operate verb - To control the mechanical operation of.
Usage example: do not operate heavy machinery, including cars, after taking this medication
Handle is a synonym for operate in manage topic. You can use "Handle" instead a verb "Operate", if it concerns topics such as work, use. popular alternative
Mutual synonyms
Common collocations
Both words in one sentence
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They break the loop by learning to co-operate with their fellow agents on board instead of telling everyone to stand back while they handle it.
Source: "Groundhog Day" Loop -
Proportionally speaking, Ixnay the Pixie has the largest breasts and is so physically weak she cannot operate an ordinary door handle.
Source: Webcomic / Elf Blood -
McFly's boy can handle the practical intelligence needed to outsmart opponents and operate time machines any day.
Source: Franchise / Back to the Future
Cite this Source
Operate and Handle. (2016). Retrieved 2026, July 21, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/handle/operate
Handle & Operate. N.p., 2016. Web. 21 Jul. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/handle/operate>.
Operate or Handle. 2016. Accessed July 21, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/handle/operate.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "handle" and "operate" have occurred on timeline