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effective

[ih-fek-tiv, ee-fek‐] / ɪˈfɛk tɪv, iˈfɛk‐ /




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.

Eli Lilly LLY 0.55%increase; green up pointing triangle shares rose in early European trade after a late-stage trial showed its drug was effective in weight loss and in alleviating obesity-linked conditions.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

"But we still haven't seen a single measure that is effective in reducing the number of tourists."

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026

Both companies have said that the majority of the new prescriptions are for new users of GLP-1s, not people switching from the more effective and expensive injections.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 7, 2026

Paracervical blocks are so effective that both the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention support using them during IUD insertion.

From Slate • Jun. 7, 2026

Unfortunately, many people are diagnosed too late to receive effective and available treatment.

From "At Last She Stood" by Erin Entrada Kelly




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