effective

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

ADJECTIVE

successful, persuasive

Synonyms

STRONGEST

active adequate compelling competent direct efficient forceful impressive potent powerful practical successful useful valid

STRONG

effectual efficacious

WEAK

able big-wheel capable cogent convincing emphatic energetic forcible having lead in pencil live moving on the ball operative persuasive playing hardball powerhouse producing resultant serviceable serving sound striking telling trenchant virtuous wicked yielding

Antonyms

STRONGEST

helpless impotent inadequate incapable incompetent ineffective inefficient insufficient unable useless weak worthless

STRONG

unproductive unsuccessful

WEAK

fruitless inoperative

ADJECTIVE

in use at the time

Synonyms

STRONGEST

active direct dynamic

WEAK

actual current in effect in execution in force in operation operative real

Antonyms

STRONGEST

inactive

WEAK

fruitless impotent incapable ineffective inoperative unproductive useless weak

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.

Mr. Salih stood out to U.S. partners as an effective advocate and negotiator, important skills for his new job.

From The Wall Street Journal

The international community must "exert real and effective pressure to halt all violations that occur on a daily basis of the ceasefire agreement," he told a news conference in Cairo.

From Barron's

And while it’s tempting to think your actions don’t matter, millions of people taking small steps is the most effective way to move the country forward.

From The Wall Street Journal

Exports are widely expected to have remained robust after a stronger-than-expected reading of 8.4% growth in November, backed by AI-related chip demand and a trade agreement struck with Washington to lower tariffs, effective Nov. 1.

From The Wall Street Journal

Krispy Kreme on Friday said it expects to complete the sale in the first quarter of 2026, adding that it would enter into a development and franchise agreement with Unison effective at the closing.

From The Wall Street Journal

effective

Usage

Example Sentences

Related Words