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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.

The approach stands out because it remains highly effective even in the face of real-world challenges such as manufacturing imperfections and environmental noise.

From Science Daily • Jun. 12, 2026

"Obviously that's not going to be the case for everyone, but it's an effective way to fund yourself."

From BBC • Jun. 12, 2026

One of the most effective ways to prevent future financial mistakes is to set rules of thumb, she noted.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 12, 2026

Rocket Lab will be added to the Nasdaq 100 index as part of a quarterly rebalancing, effective June 22.

From Barron's • Jun. 12, 2026

Another especially effective strategy was disruption of the Indigenous trade networks, which caused food shortages and starvation.

From "An Indigenous People’s History of the United States" by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz




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