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B1 verb 12 min read

运营

yùnyíng

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 运营 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 运营 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use '运营' (yùnyíng) often, but you might see it in public places. Think of it as a formal way to say 'open' or 'running' for things like buses or trains. If you see a sign at a subway station that says '运营中,' it just means the station is open and the trains are running. You can think of it as a big word for a simple idea: 'is it working right now?' For beginners, just remember that this word is for big things like companies or train lines, not for small things like a toy or a pen. If you want to say you are 'running' in a park, don't use this word! Use '跑步' (pǎobù). 运营 is a 'business' word. Even at this level, knowing it helps you understand announcements at the airport or train station.

As an A2 learner, you can start to understand '运营' (yùnyíng) in the context of shops and websites. It means 'to run' a business in a professional way. You might hear people talk about '运营一个网站' (operating a website). It is more formal than '开' (kāi - to open/start). If you are talking about your hobbies, like a blog or a YouTube channel, you can use 运营 to sound more serious and professional. You will also see it in compound words like '运营时间' (yùnyíng shíjiān), which means 'operating hours.' This is very useful when you are traveling in China and need to know when the subway closes. Remember, 运营 is about the process of keeping something going every day.

At the B1 level, you should be able to use '运营' (yùnyíng) in professional and semi-formal contexts. This word is essential for discussing work, especially if you work in technology, logistics, or management. You should distinguish it from '经营' (jīngyíng), which is about the overall business management and profit, and '运行' (yùnxíng), which is about machines or software running. For a B1 learner, 运营 is the go-to word for 'operations.' You can use it to talk about '运营模式' (operating models) or '运营成本' (operating costs). If you are describing your job responsibilities in an interview, saying you '运营' a project or a social media account shows that you understand the professional terminology of the Chinese workplace. It implies that you are not just doing tasks, but managing a system.

For B2 learners, '运营' (yùnyíng) becomes a versatile tool for discussing complex business strategies and economic trends. You should be comfortable using it in phrases like '优化运营流程' (optimizing operational processes) or '提升运营效率' (improving operational efficiency). At this level, you should also understand the specific roles within the Chinese internet industry, such as '用户运营' (User Operations) and '内容运营' (Content Operations). These aren't just 'management' roles; they are data-driven, strategic positions. You should be able to discuss how a company's '运营策略' (operating strategy) affects its market position. You can also use it metaphorically or in more abstract contexts, such as the operation of a complex social system or a large-scale international project.

At the C1 level, you are expected to use '运营' (yùnyíng) with nuance and precision. You should be able to analyze the '运营风险' (operational risks) of a financial venture or the '资本运营' (capital operations) of a major corporation. You will encounter this word in academic papers on management and in high-level business negotiations. You should understand how 运营 interacts with other high-level concepts like '战略' (strategy) and '治理' (governance). A C1 speaker can discuss the nuances between '标准化运营' (standardized operations) and '差异化运营' (differentiated operations) in a globalized market. You should also be familiar with the historical evolution of the term and how it has been adapted to the 'Platform Economy' (平台经济) in modern China.

At the C2 level, '运营' (yùnyíng) is a fundamental concept that you can manipulate to discuss the most abstract and complex systems. You can use it to describe the '运营逻辑' (operational logic) of an entire economic ecosystem or the '运营哲学' (operational philosophy) of a visionary leader. You should be able to critique the '运营效率' of state-owned enterprises versus private firms using sophisticated vocabulary. At this level, you are not just using the word; you are debating the concepts it represents. You might discuss the '数字化转型中的运营重塑' (reshaping operations in digital transformation) or the '生态化运营' (ecosystem-based operations) of modern tech giants. Your usage should be indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker, reflecting a deep understanding of Chinese corporate culture and economic theory.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

运营 in 30 Seconds

运营 (yùnyíng) is a formal term for 'operating' or 'running' a professional system, business, or infrastructure, focusing on functional management and daily execution.
It is widely used in the tech industry for roles like content or user management and in transportation for subway and bus services.
Unlike '经营' (strategic management) or '运行' (mechanical running), '运营' emphasizes the ongoing process of keeping a professional system active and optimized.
Commonly found in business contexts such as 'operating costs' (运营成本) and 'operating models' (运营模式), it is a vital word for professional communication.

The term 运营 (yùnyíng) is a sophisticated Chinese verb and noun that primarily translates to 'to operate,' 'to run,' or 'to manage' within a professional or systemic context. While English speakers might use 'run' for everything from running a marathon to running a shop, Chinese distinguishes between the physical act of movement and the strategic act of organizational operation. The word 运营 is deeply rooted in the concept of maintaining a system's functionality over a long period. In the modern era, its usage has exploded due to the digital economy, where it now encompasses everything from managing a social media account to overseeing the logistical network of a multinational corporation. It implies a level of professional oversight and strategic planning that goes beyond simple daily tasks.

Business Operations: This refers to the core activities a business engages in to create value. It includes supply chain management, logistics, and resource allocation. For example, 'The company's operations in Shanghai are expanding' would use 运营.
Digital and User Operations: In the tech world, 运营 is a specific job title. A 'Content Operator' (内容运营) manages what goes on a platform, while a 'User Operator' (用户运营) focuses on growing and retaining the user base. This is a very common career path in China's internet giants like Alibaba or Tencent.
Public Transportation: When a subway line or a bus route is functioning, it is said to be in 运营. If a station is closed for repairs, it is 'not in operation' (停止运营).

这家互联网公司的主要业务是内容运营。(The main business of this internet company is content operations.)

Understanding 运营 requires looking at its constituent characters. 运 (yùn) means to transport, move, or carry. It suggests movement and flow. 营 (yíng) means a camp, barracks, or to build and manage. Together, they paint a picture of 'moving and managing' a structure or system. Unlike 经营 (jīngyíng), which often refers to the broader management or 'running' of a business with a focus on profit and ownership, 运营 is more about the functional, day-to-day execution and optimization of systems. It is the engine room of the business world. You will see this word on job boards, in news reports about the economy, and in announcements at train stations.

地铁三号线已经正式投入运营。(Subway Line 3 has formally entered operation.)

The versatility of 运营 is its most striking feature. It can act as a verb, as in 'to operate a platform,' or as a noun, as in 'the operations of the platform.' In the context of the Chinese 'App Economy,' 运营 has become a buzzword. It represents the lifecycle of a product after it has been built. Developers build the app, but the 'operations team' (运营团队) is responsible for making sure people actually use it, stay on it, and eventually pay for services. This nuance is vital for anyone looking to work in China or with Chinese tech firms.

我们需要优化我们的用户运营策略。(We need to optimize our user operations strategy.)

由于资金不足，该项目停止了运营。(Due to insufficient funds, the project ceased operations.)

In summary, use 运营 when discussing the professional management of systems, the functioning of public services, or the strategic growth of digital platforms. It is a word that conveys stability, process, and professional execution. Whether you are talking about a high-speed rail network or a niche WeChat public account, 运营 is the term that describes the work being done behind the scenes to keep the gears turning and the users engaged.

Using 运营 correctly involves understanding its placement as both a noun and a verb. Because it is a formal term, it often appears in structures involving objects like 'platform,' 'company,' 'system,' or 'project.' Below, we explore the grammatical patterns and contextual applications that will help you master this essential B1-level word.

As a Verb (To Operate/Run): When used as a verb, 运营 usually takes a direct object. The subject is typically a person, a team, or a corporation. Structure: [Subject] + 运营 + [Object].
As a Noun (Operations/Management): As a noun, it often follows possessive particles or adjectives. It can also be part of a compound noun like 运营成本 (operating costs) or 运营模式 (business model/operating model).

他们负责运营这个社交媒体账号。(They are responsible for operating this social media account.)

A common pattern is '投入运营' (tóurù yùnyíng), which means 'to put into operation' or 'to start running.' This is frequently used for infrastructure projects like bridges, airports, and factories. Another important pattern is '在运营中' (zài yùnyíng zhōng), meaning 'in operation' or 'currently running.'

新机场预计明年正式投入运营。(The new airport is expected to formally enter operation next year.)

In professional discussions, you might hear about '运营效率' (yùnyíng xiàolǜ - operational efficiency). This is a key metric in business. If a business is struggling, a consultant might suggest '优化运营流程' (yōuhuà yùnyíng liúchéng - optimizing operational processes). The word carries a connotation of systematic management rather than just 'doing' something.

良好的运营是公司成功的关键。(Good operations are the key to a company's success.)

When describing the scope of a business, you can say '全球运营' (quánqiú yùnyíng - global operations) or '本地运营' (běndì yùnyíng - local operations). This helps define the scale and reach of the activities being performed. If you are applying for a job, you might describe your experience as '具有三年的新媒体运营经验' (having three years of new media operations experience).

我们正在招聘一名资深的运营总监。(We are currently recruiting a senior Director of Operations.)

Compound: 运营成本: Operating costs. Used in financial reports to describe the expenses required to keep a business running.
Compound: 运营模式: Operating model or business model. Describes the framework of how a project functions.

Finally, consider the negative form: '停止运营' (tíngzhǐ yùnyíng). This is used when a service is discontinued, whether temporarily for maintenance or permanently due to business failure. It is more formal than '关门' (guānmén - close doors) and is used for systems rather than just physical storefronts.

由于技术故障，该网站暂时停止了运营。(Due to a technical glitch, the website has temporarily ceased operations.)

By mastering these patterns, you can discuss business, technology, and infrastructure with the precision of a native speaker. Remember that 运营 is about the 'how' and the 'process' of keeping things moving smoothly.

If you step into any modern office building in Beijing, Shanghai, or Shenzhen, 运营 is a word you will hear dozens of times a day. It is the lifeblood of the Chinese corporate world, particularly in the tech sector. But its reach extends far beyond the glass-walled offices of high-tech startups. You will encounter it in public announcements, financial news, and even in casual conversations about social media.

In the Tech Industry: In companies like ByteDance or Meituan, '运营' is a specific department. You will hear people say, 'Let's check with the operations team' (问一下运营团队). They are talking about the people who manage content, users, and activities on the app.
On Public Transport: When you are taking the 'Gaotie' (High-speed rail) or the subway, announcements use this word. 'The train is currently in normal operation' (列车运行正常) is common, but 'operation hours' is specifically '运营时间'.
In Business News: News anchors will discuss the 'operating revenue' (运营收入) of major state-owned enterprises or the 'operating risks' (运营风险) of new financial products.

“我们的小红书账号运营得非常成功。” ("Our Xiaohongshu account is being operated very successfully.")

In a casual setting, a friend might tell you they are 'operating' a side business or a blog. Even though it's a formal word, the rise of the 'Side Hustle' (副业) culture in China means many individuals now see themselves as 'operators' of their personal brands. They might say, 'I spend my weekends operating my YouTube channel' (我周末都在运营我的YouTube频道). This shows how the word has shifted from purely corporate to more personal and accessible.

“这家餐厅因为运营不善，倒闭了。” ("This restaurant closed down due to poor operations.")

You will also see the word in real estate and urban planning. When a new shopping mall or park opens, the sign might say 'Opening for Operation' (开业运营). It signifies that the space is not just physically complete, but that the services, staff, and systems are all active and ready for the public. This distinction is important in Chinese culture, where the 'grand opening' is a major milestone.

“这里的物业运营非常规范。” ("The property management operations here are very standardized.")

Finally, in the context of international relations and global business, you'll hear about 'Overseas Operations' (海外运营). As Chinese companies like TikTok (Douyin) or Huawei expand globally, the challenges of 'localizing operations' (本土化运营) are a frequent topic of discussion in podcasts and business journals. Hearing this word should immediately trigger a mental image of systems, logistics, and professional management.

While 运营 might seem straightforward, many learners confuse it with similar-looking or similar-meaning words. Because Chinese has several words for 'run,' 'manage,' and 'operate,' it is easy to pick the wrong one for the context. Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid.

Confusing 运营 with 运行 (yùnxíng): This is the most common mistake. 运行 refers to the physical or technical 'running' of a machine, software, or celestial body (like a planet). 运营 refers to the 'operation' of a business or system. For example, a computer program 'runs' (运行), but a business 'operates' (运营).
Confusing 运营 with 经营 (jīngyíng): 经营 is broader. It covers the management, strategy, and ownership aspect of running a business with the goal of profit. 运营 is more focused on the functional processes and maintenance. You '经营' a company (as an owner), but you '运营' its daily processes.
Confusing 运营 with 操作 (cāozuò): 操作 means to 'operate' a specific piece of equipment or to 'manipulate' something with your hands. You '操作' a machine, but you '运营' a factory.

Incorrect: 我的电脑运营得很慢。(My computer is operating very slowly.)
Correct: 我的电脑运行得很慢。(My computer is running very slowly.)

Another mistake is using 运营 for physical exercise or movement. In English, we say 'I am running a race,' but in Chinese, you must use 跑步 (pǎobù). Using 运营 in this context would sound very strange, as if you were managing the logistics of the race rather than participating in it.

Incorrect: 他在公园里运营。(He is operating in the park.)
Correct: 他在公园里跑步。(He is running in the park.)

Learners also sometimes forget that 运营 can be a noun. They might try to create complex verb phrases where a simple noun would suffice. For instance, instead of saying 'The cost of operating is high,' they might struggle with '运营的钱很多.' The correct professional way is '运营成本很高' (yùnyíng chéngběn hěn gāo).

Incorrect: 这个平台的运营很难做。(Doing the operation of this platform is hard.)
Correct: 这个平台的运营很复杂。(The operation of this platform is complex.)

Finally, be careful with the word '运营商' (yùnyíngshāng). While it means 'operator,' it is almost exclusively used for telecommunications or large-scale service providers. Don't use it to refer to a person who operates a small machine; use '操作员' (cāozuòyuán) instead. Understanding these nuances will prevent you from sounding like a translation bot and help you communicate naturally in a professional Chinese environment.

To truly master 运营, you need to know its 'neighbors'—those words that share a similar space but have distinct boundaries. Choosing the right synonym can elevate your speech from 'understandable' to 'precise.' Let's compare 运营 with its most common alternatives.

运营 (yùnyíng) vs. 经营 (jīngyíng): 运营: Focuses on the functional process, maintenance, and efficiency of a system. (e.g., operating a subway).
经营: Focuses on the strategic management, business model, and profit-making. (e.g., managing a restaurant chain).
运营 (yùnyíng) vs. 运行 (yùnxíng): 运营: Involves human management and business systems.
运行: Involves mechanical or automatic processes (e.g., software running on a server).
运营 (yùnyíng) vs. 运作 (yùnzuò): 运作: Often refers to the 'inner workings' or the 'mechanisms' of how something happens, sometimes with a slightly more abstract or behind-the-scenes feel. (e.g., how the capital market works).

“我们需要改变公司的运营模式。” (We need to change the company's operating model.)

If you are talking about managing a small shop, you might use 打理 (dǎlǐ), which is a more informal, everyday term for 'taking care of' or 'running' things. For example, 'I help my parents run their shop' would be '我帮父母打理店铺.' 运营 would sound too corporate and formal for a small family business.

“资本市场的运作非常复杂。” (The workings of the capital market are very complex.)

In the context of technology, another alternative is 维护 (wéihù), which means 'to maintain.' While 运营 is about growing and using a platform, 维护 is specifically about keeping it from breaking and fixing bugs. A website needs both 运营 (to get users) and 维护 (to keep the servers up).

Lastly, consider 管理 (guǎnlǐ), the general word for 'to manage' or 'to administer.' This is the broadest term and can often replace 运营 in a pinch, but it lacks the specific connotation of 'keeping a system in motion' that 运营 provides. If you manage people, use 管理. If you manage a flow of content or a transport system, 运营 is better.

“他擅长人员管理，但不擅长业务运营。” (He is good at people management, but not good at business operations.)

By understanding these distinctions, you can choose the word that fits the scale, formality, and specific nature of what you are 'running.' 运营 remains the champion for professional, systemic, and digital operation contexts.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient times, 营 referred specifically to the layout of a military camp. Today, it's used for the layout of a digital user interface's strategy!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /jùn.jǐŋ/

US /jùn.jǐŋ/

In Chinese, stress is usually equal across syllables, but the tones are primary. Ensure the 4th tone on 'yùn' is sharp and falling, and the 2nd tone on 'yíng' is clear and rising.

Rhymes With

精英 (jīngyīng) 进行 (jìnxíng) 心情 (xīnqíng) 命令 (mìnglìng) 清醒 (qīngxǐng) 明星 (míngxīng) 和平 (hépíng) 生命 (shēngmìng)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'yun' like 'sun' without the 'y'.
Failing to rise enough on the 2nd tone of 'yíng'.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'yùnxíng' (运行).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Characters are moderately complex but common in business texts.

Writing 4/5

The character '营' has many strokes and requires practice.

Speaking 3/5

Tones (4th and 2nd) are distinct and easy to distinguish once learned.

Listening 3/5

Common in news and announcements, making it easy to recognize.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

工作公司运行管理业务

Learn Next

策略效率成本模式优化

Advanced

资本运作精细化管理用户留存获客成本闭环

Grammar to Know

Verb + 得 + Complement of Result/Degree

他把账号运营得很红火。(He operated the account very successfully/busily.)

Compound Nouns (Noun + Noun)

运营模式 (Operating model), 运营成本 (Operating cost).

Prepositional Phrases with '负责'

我负责这个项目的运营。(I am responsible for the operation of this project.)

Directional Verbs like '投入'

该设备已投入运营。(The equipment has been put into operation.)

Negation with '停止' or '不善'

由于运营不善，公司倒闭了。(Due to poor operations, the company closed.)

Examples by Level

地铁在运营中。

The subway is in operation.

Simple subject + prepositional phrase.

这家店停止运营了。

This shop stopped operating.

Subject + verb phrase + aspect particle 'le'.

我们要学习运营。

We need to learn operations.

Direct object usage.

运营时间是什么？

What are the operating hours?

Noun compound.

他在运营一个网站。

He is operating a website.

Progressive aspect.

这里没有运营。

There are no operations here.

Negation with 'méiyǒu'.

运营很好。

The operations are good.

Subject + adjective.

开始运营了。

Operations have started.

Verb + aspect particle.

这个公众号运营得不错。

This official account is operated quite well.

Verb + 'de' + complement.

运营成本太高了。

The operating costs are too high.

Noun phrase as subject.

他们正在学习如何运营公司。

They are learning how to run a company.

Verb phrase with 'how to'.

运营模式很简单。

The operating model is very simple.

Noun compound as subject.

我们需要一个运营团队。

We need an operations team.

Direct object.

这家餐厅运营了十年。

This restaurant has operated for ten years.

Verb + duration.

停止运营是非常可惜的。

It is a pity to stop operations.

Verb phrase as subject.

运营是他的工作。

Operations is his job.

Noun as subject.

我们需要优化这个平台的运营策略。

We need to optimize the operating strategy of this platform.

Complex noun phrase with 'de'.

他是负责用户运营的主管。

He is the manager in charge of user operations.

Relative clause structure.

新航线将于下个月投入运营。

The new air route will be put into operation next month.

Future tense with 'jiāngyú' + fixed phrase 'tóurù yùnyíng'.

公司的运营状况非常稳定。

The company's operating status is very stable.

Possessive noun phrase.

运营一个品牌需要长期的投入。

Operating a brand requires long-term investment.

Gerund-like verb phrase as subject.

由于运营不善，工厂被迫关闭。

Due to poor operations, the factory was forced to close.

Causal structure with 'yóuyú'.

我们的运营重心将转向线上。

Our operational focus will shift online.

Subject + 'jiāng' + verb.

他有丰富的内容运营经验。

He has rich experience in content operations.

Adjective + noun phrase.

为了提高运营效率，我们引入了人工智能系统。

In order to improve operational efficiency, we introduced an AI system.

Purpose clause with 'wèile'.

该项目的运营逻辑存在明显的缺陷。

There is an obvious flaw in the operating logic of this project.

Abstract noun usage.

在全球化背景下，本土化运营显得尤为重要。

In the context of globalization, localized operations are particularly important.

Adverbial phrase + subject + complement.

我们要严格控制运营风险。

We must strictly control operational risks.

Adverb + verb + object.

运营数据反映了用户的真实需求。

Operating data reflects the true needs of users.

Noun as subject.

这家互联网巨头正在重新定义运营的边界。

This internet giant is redefining the boundaries of operations.

Progressive aspect with 'zhèngzài'.

良好的运营能够为公司创造持续的价值。

Good operations can create sustainable value for the company.

Auxiliary verb 'nénggòu'.

运营总监需要具备全局视野。

The Director of Operations needs to have a global perspective.

Professional title as subject.

资本运营与业务运营的协同效应是公司增长的关键。

The synergistic effect of capital operations and business operations is the key to company growth.

Complex subject with 'yǔ' and 'de'.

在数字化转型过程中，传统企业的运营模式面临巨大挑战。

In the process of digital transformation, the operating models of traditional enterprises face huge challenges.

Prepositional phrase + subject + verb + object.

该运营商在市场竞争中占据了主导地位。

The operator has occupied a dominant position in market competition.

Specific noun 'yùnyíngshāng'.

通过精细化运营，我们成功降低了获客成本。

Through refined operations, we successfully reduced customer acquisition costs.

Method phrase with 'tōngguò'.

运营体系的完善程度直接影响到企业的核心竞争力。

The degree of perfection of the operating system directly affects the core competitiveness of the enterprise.

Abstract noun phrase as subject.

我们要从战略高度来审视当前的运营问题。

We need to examine current operational issues from a strategic height.

Adverbial of perspective with 'cóng...lái'.

该平台的运营权已被第三方机构接管。

The operating rights of the platform have been taken over by a third-party organization.

Passive structure with 'bèi'.

实现运营自动化是公司未来五年的核心目标。

Achieving operational automation is the company's core goal for the next five years.

Verb phrase as subject.

运营本质上是对资源在时空维度上的最优配置与动态管理。

Operations is essentially the optimal allocation and dynamic management of resources in the dimensions of time and space.

Philosophical definition structure.

在后工业时代，运营的内涵已从单纯的生产管理演变为生态系统的治理。

In the post-industrial era, the connotation of operations has evolved from simple production management to the governance of ecosystems.

Evolutionary structure with 'cóng...yǎnbiàn wéi'.

企业需通过深度的运营创新来抵御宏观经济波动带来的不确定性。

Enterprises need to resist the uncertainty brought by macroeconomic fluctuations through deep operational innovation.

Complex causal and instrumental structure.

该跨国集团的全球运营网络体现了极高的组织协同与敏捷性。

The global operating network of this multinational group reflects extremely high organizational synergy and agility.

Sophisticated subject-verb-object.

运营效率的边际递减效应促使公司寻求更具颠覆性的增长模式。

The marginal diminishing effect of operational efficiency prompts the company to seek more disruptive growth models.

Economic terminology usage.

从运营视角看，平台经济的成功在于其对双边市场的高效匹配机制。

From an operational perspective, the success of the platform economy lies in its efficient matching mechanism for two-sided markets.

Perspective phrase 'cóng...kàn'.

我们要警惕过度依赖技术工具而忽视运营人文内核的倾向。

We should be wary of the tendency to over-rely on technical tools while ignoring the humanistic core of operations.

Warning structure with 'jǐngtì'.

运营体系的稳健性是企业在极端市场环境下生存的底气。

The robustness of the operating system is the source of confidence for an enterprise to survive in extreme market environments.

Metaphorical noun usage.

Common Collocations

运营成本

运营模式

投入运营

停止运营

运营效率

用户运营

内容运营

运营风险

全球运营

运营总监

Common Phrases

正常运营

— Operating normally. Used for systems or businesses.

目前所有系统都在正常运营。

独立运营

— Operating independently. Often used for subsidiaries.

该子公司将保持独立运营。

联合运营

— Joint operations. Used for partnerships.

这两家公司决定联合运营该项目。

线上运营

— Online operations. Running digital services.

我们要加强线上运营的力度。

线下运营

— Offline operations. Running physical stores or services.

线下运营的成本正在上升。

精细化运营

— Refined operations. Highly detailed management.

精细化运营可以提升用户留存率。

自动化运营

— Automated operations. Using software to run systems.

自动化运营是未来的趋势。

本土化运营

— Localized operations. Adapting to a local market.

本土化运营对海外市场至关重要。

长期运营

— Long-term operation. Sustainable management.

这个项目需要长期运营的耐心。

亏损运营

— Operating at a loss. Running despite losing money.

很多创业公司初期都在亏损运营。

Often Confused With

运营 vs 运行 (yùnxíng)

运行 is for machines and software; 运营 is for business and systems managed by people.

运营 vs 经营 (jīngyíng)

经营 is broader and focuses on strategy/profit; 运营 focuses on functional execution.

运营 vs 运动 (yùndòng)

运动 means sports or physical movement; never use it for business operations.

Idioms & Expressions

"步步为营"

— To advance gradually and entrench oneself at every step. While it uses '营', it means being cautious and steady in one's actions.

他在商业谈判中步步为营。

Formal

"运筹帷幄"

— To devise strategies within a command tent. Used for high-level planning and management.

首席执行官在后方运筹帷幄。

Formal/Literary

"营私舞弊"

— To practice favoritism and engage in fraudulent activities for personal gain.

他因为营私舞弊被开除了。

Formal/Legal

"惨淡经营"

— To keep a business going with great effort under difficult circumstances.

在经济危机中，他惨淡经营着这家小店。

Neutral/Literary

"运笔如飞"

— To write very fast (uses '运').

他在考试中运笔如飞。

Neutral

"应运而生"

— To emerge as the times require (uses '运').

这款软件是应运而生的。

Formal

"苦心经营"

— To build something up with painstaking effort.

这是他苦心经营多年的事业。

Formal

"富丽堂皇"

— Sumptuous and magnificent (uses '皇', often confused by learners, but '营' can be part of architectural descriptions in classical texts).

宫殿非常富丽堂皇。

Neutral

"安营扎寨"

— To set up camp. Literal meaning of '营'.

我们在山脚下安营扎寨。

Neutral

"自营业务"

— Self-operated business (not an idiom but a critical business term).

这是京东的自营业务。

Business

Easily Confused

运营 vs 运行

Similar pronunciation and both mean 'to run.'

运行 is technical/automatic (e.g., a computer runs). 运营 is managerial (e.g., a team runs a website).

电脑运行很快，但网站运营很差。

运营 vs 经营

Both used in business and management.

经营 is 'to manage a business' (strategy/ownership). 运营 is 'to operate a system' (process/execution).

他经营公司，我运营项目。

运营 vs 运作

Both mean 'operation.'

运作 is often more abstract or internal (how things work). 运营 is more concrete and functional.

资本运作很复杂，但日常运营很简单。

运营 vs 管理

General term for management.

管理 is broad and applies to people. 运营 is specific to systems and processes.

管理员工和运营平台是不同的。

运营 vs 操作

Both translate as 'operate.'

操作 is hands-on (operating a machine). 运营 is systemic (operating a business).

操作机器需要技术，运营公司需要智慧。

Sentence Patterns

Subject + 在运营中。

商店在运营中。

Subject + 运营 + Object。

他们运营网站。

Subject + 投入运营。

新工厂投入运营。

运营 + 成本/模式 + 很 + Adjective。

运营成本很高。

为了...，我们需要优化运营。

为了增加收入，我们需要优化运营。

Subject + 具有...运营经验。

他具有丰富的内容运营经验。

运营 + 的关键在于 + ...。

运营的关键在于用户留存。

从运营视角来看，...。

从运营视角来看，这不仅是技术问题。

Word Family

Nouns

运营商 (yùnyíngshāng) - operator/provider

运营费 (yùnyíngfèi) - operating fee

运营权 (yùnyíngquán) - operating rights

Verbs

运作 (yùnzuò) - to work/operate

运转 (yùnzhuǎn) - to revolve/run (mechanically)

Adjectives

运营性的 (yùnyíngxìng de) - operational

经营 (jīngyíng)

运行 (yùnxíng)

操纵 (cāozuò)

管理 (guǎnlǐ)

维护 (wéihù)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in business, technology, and news.

Common Mistakes

Using 运营 for personal running. → 跑步 (pǎobù)
运营 is for business and systems, not physical exercise.
Using 运营 for a computer program. → 运行 (yùnxíng)
Programs 'run' (运行) automatically; they don't have 'operations' (运营) in the managerial sense.
Confusing 运营 with 经营 for a small family shop. → 经营 (jīngyíng) or 打理 (dǎlǐ)
运营 sounds too corporate for a small family business.
Saying '运营一个机器' for operating a tool. → 操作 (cāozuò)
Use 操作 for manual operation of tools or machines.
Forgetting that 运营 can be a noun. → 运营成本 (Operating costs)
Many learners try to use a verb phrase where a compound noun is more natural.

Tips

Use with 'de'

When describing how something is operated, use the particle '得'. For example: '运营得很好'.

Pair with 'Model'

Always remember '运营模式' (Operating Model) as a fixed phrase for business discussions.

Job Titles

If you work in tech, look for jobs with '运营' in the title; it's a huge sector in China.

Internet Slang

Sometimes people say '骚运营' to describe a very clever or unexpected marketing move.

Infrastructure

Use '投入运营' for new public projects like airports or high-speed rails.

Subway Signs

Look for '运营时间' at station entrances to know when the last train is.

Formal Reports

Use '运营状况' (Operating status) to summarize how a project is going in a report.

运营 vs 运行

Remember: People 运营, Machines 运行.

Corporate Use

In a corporate setting, '运营' is more about efficiency than '经营'.

Director level

A 'COO' is often translated as '首席运营官' (shǒuxí yùnyíng guān).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Yun' as 'Running' (like a transport truck) and 'Ying' as 'Managing' (like a manager in a camp). Running + Managing = Operations.

Visual Association

Imagine a subway train (movement - 运) inside a high-tech control room (management - 营).

Word Web

Business Subway Website Strategy Cost Efficiency Team Provider

Challenge

Try to describe your daily routine at work using 运营. What systems are you 'operating' today?

Word Origin

The word is composed of 运 (yùn) and 营 (yíng). 运 originally meant to transport or move goods (often by cart). 营 originally meant a military camp or to construct barracks. Over time, 'moving' and 'building/managing a camp' combined to mean the management of a functional system.

Original meaning: Managing the logistics and setup of a military or organizational camp.

Sino-Tibetan (Chinese)

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities, but ensure you don't confuse it with '操纵' (manipulate) when talking about people, as that can be negative.

In English, 'operations' can sound like surgery or military strikes, but in Chinese business, it is much more common and relates heavily to digital growth.

The 'Operating Model' of Alibaba's Taobao. The 'Operations Team' of Tencent's WeChat. China Mobile as the world's largest 'Telecom Operator' (运营商).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Professional/Work

汇报运营情况
制定运营计划
分析运营数据
负责日常运营

Public Services

首班车运营时间
全线恢复运营
因故停止运营
安全运营天数

Internet/Tech

新媒体运营
社群运营
活动运营
电商运营

Finance

运营利润
运营现金流
运营杠杆
降低运营风险

Education/Learning

运营管理课程
模拟运营比赛
学习运营知识
运营案例分析

Conversation Starters

"你目前负责哪方面的运营工作？ (What aspect of operations are you currently responsible for?)"

"你觉得这家公司的运营模式有什么优点？ (What do you think are the advantages of this company's operating model?)"

"地铁现在的运营时间是几点到几点？ (What are the current operating hours for the subway?)"

"你有没有运营过自己的社交媒体账号？ (Have you ever operated your own social media account?)"

"如何才能提高一个小程序的运营效率？ (How can one improve the operating efficiency of a mini-program?)"

Journal Prompts

描述你理想中的工作岗位，是否涉及运营工作？为什么？ (Describe your ideal job position. Does it involve operations? Why?)

分析一个你经常使用的APP，评价它的运营策略。 (Analyze an app you use frequently and evaluate its operating strategy.)

如果你要运营一家书店，你会如何降低运营成本？ (If you were to operate a bookstore, how would you reduce operating costs?)

谈谈你对中国互联网行业中“运营”这个角色的看法。 (Share your thoughts on the role of 'operations' in the Chinese internet industry.)

记录一次因为服务停止运营而给你带来的不便。 (Record a time when you were inconvenienced because a service stopped operating.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but it sounds very formal. For a small shop, '经营' or the informal '打理' is more common. Use 运营 if you want to sound like you have a professional system in place.

经营 (jīngyíng) focuses on the overall business strategy and profit-making. 运营 (yùnyíng) focuses on the day-to-day functional processes and keeping the system running efficiently.

No, for software 'running' on a computer, use 运行 (yùnxíng). However, if you are 'operating' the business side of an app (like content and users), use 运营.

It means 'operator,' specifically a service provider like a mobile network operator (e.g., China Mobile) or an internet service provider.

The term is 运营成本 (yùnyíng chéngběn). It is a very common phrase in business and finance.

It is both. You can say '运营一个项目' (verb: operate a project) or '项目的运营' (noun: the operation of the project).

No. For sports or 'running' a race, use 跑步 (pǎobù) or 运动 (yùndòng). 运营 is strictly for business and systems.

用户运营 (yònghù yùnyíng) is a job role focused on acquiring, retaining, and engaging users of a digital product or service.

It means to 'enter into operation' or 'be put into service.' It's often used for new infrastructure like bridges or subway lines.

In professional life, yes. In casual life, you'll mostly see it on signs or hear it in the news regarding public services.