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Definitions

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:

Merchant cash advances deliver quick funding, but some carry effective finance costs as high as 2,000%.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 2, 2026

"We requested that the US side strictly enforce discipline among its personnel, implement effective measures to prevent a recurrence, and ensure full compliance with the nighttime curfew," Koizumi told reporters.

From Barron's ● Nov. 2, 2026

Taken together, these limitations mean that the existing research cannot establish whether medical cannabis is an effective insomnia treatment.

From Science Daily ● Nov. 2, 2026

But the Rams gave up two big returns in a Week 7 win at Las Vegas, so they re-signed Karty, who specializes in knuckleball kickoffs which can be extremely effective when executed successfully.

From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 2, 2026

That seemed the most effective way to overthrow segregationist Jim Crow laws.

From "Because They Marched" by Russell Freedman


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