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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 government says the trial will help build a more effective screening system for the disease for the future.

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2026

A buffer zone in southern Lebanon would do little to eliminate that threat, Heller told AFP, "for which it doesn't seem like the Israelis have an effective countermeasure."

From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026

And he thinks A.I. can be harnessed to make government more efficient and effective for constituents.

From Slate • Jun. 2, 2026

“I used it last year to pursue a $20k annual raise. Pretty effective in my case,” another Reddit user posted.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

As more effective procedures were developed, surgery and wound treatment became safer.

From "Ambushed!" by Gail Jarrow




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