Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for effective. Search instead for effective tool.
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:

Guinea-Bissau currently vaccinates children against hepatitis B at six weeks, which means it is less effective.

From BBC ● Nov. 5, 2026

California’s minimum wage, effective at the start of this year, is $16.90 per hour.

From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 4, 2026

Such damage can interfere with proteins and other essential components of cells, particularly when the body's normal protective systems become less effective.

From Science Daily ● Nov. 4, 2026

It said the overhaul was necessary to ensure services could "remain safe, effective and sustainable, while helping more people stay well, remain independent and receive care at home or closer to home".

From BBC ● Nov. 3, 2026

Even if they had, there was no effective treatment on offer.

From "The Woman All Spies Fear" by Amy Butler Greenfield


Vocabulary lists containing effective

Random Word

Spin the wheel and learn a new word!

Get a word

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Just like flashcards, but way more fun

Don't take our word for it. Leave the boring studying behind and join VocabTrainer today. You'll learn even faster and never look back.

Take me to Vocabulary.com