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Definitions

effective

[ih-fek-tiv, ee-fek‐] / ɪˈfɛk tɪv, iˈfɛk‐ /
ADJECTIVE
successful, persuasive
Synonyms
STRONGEST
active adequate compelling competent direct efficient forceful impressive potent powerful practical successful useful valid
STRONG
effectual efficacious
WEAK
able big-wheel capable cogent convincing emphatic energetic forcible having lead in pencil live moving on the ball operative persuasive playing hardball powerhouse producing resultant serviceable serving sound striking telling trenchant virtuous wicked yielding
Antonyms
STRONGEST
helpless impotent inadequate incapable incompetent ineffective inefficient insufficient unable useless weak worthless
STRONG
unproductive unsuccessful
WEAK
fruitless inoperative
ADJECTIVE
in use at the time
Synonyms
STRONGEST
active direct dynamic
WEAK
actual current in effect in execution in force in operation operative real
Antonyms
STRONGEST
inactive
WEAK
fruitless impotent incapable ineffective inoperative unproductive useless weak

Usage

What are other ways to say effective? The adjective effective is applied to a person or a thing that has the power to, or which actually does, produce an effect: an effective boss, remedy, speech. Effectual is used especially of that which produces the effect desired or intended, or a decisive result: An effectual bombardment silenced the enemy. Efficacious suggests the capability of achieving a certain end: an efficacious plan, medicine. Efficient (applied also to persons) implies the skillful use of energy or industry to accomplish desired results with little waste of effort: efficient methods; an efficient manager. 

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Robert Moreno, former Spain coach, argued Arteta developed his own voice into producing one of the most effective units in Europe.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

"Patients should speak with their healthcare provider about the safest and most effective options for managing their symptoms."

From Science Daily • Apr. 16, 2026

He added that airlines may have to cancel flights “soon” if supplies continue to be upended by the conflict, which has resulted in the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 16, 2026

Mark McGivney, CFO of the professional services and insurance brokerage firm, is assuming additional roles of executive vice president and chief operating officer, effective Wednesday.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

Cold is an effective alarm clock, and I was up before the sun.

From "The Marrow Thieves" by Cherie Dimaline

Vocabulary lists containing effective

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