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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.

See Examples For:

The greater decrease in nerve size suggested that hydrodissection was more effective at reducing swelling around the compressed nerve.

From Science Daily ● Oct. 22, 2026

He added that Pyongyang's recent flurry of statements only suggested that the South's ongoing efforts to clear landmines inside the DMZ were "proving effective".

From Barron's ● Oct. 22, 2026

"If it is difficult to apply the fix patch promptly, temporarily suspending websites and similar measures can be considered an effective way to reduce risk," she said.

From BBC ● Oct. 22, 2026

In an era where hitters need to prepare for the possibility of unprecedented velocity on every pitch, throwing slowly might just be more effective than ever.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 21, 2026

“Most classes are out at three, but it’s not gonna be effective if we wait until after that.”

From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro


Vocabulary lists containing effective

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