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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.

But monitoring for leaks has proved effective in other industries; fence-line emissions of benzene, a carcinogen, fell 30% at petroleum refineries after implementation of a similar monitoring program, according to the EPA.

From Salon • May 10, 2026

Researchers believe that understanding how the body controls itch, including the signals that tell us when to stop scratching, could eventually lead to more effective therapies.

From Science Daily • May 10, 2026

That method is also long-proven, safe, and effective, Brandi said.

From Barron's • May 10, 2026

American forces, an admiral said, “have cleared an effective pathway for ships to leave at this point.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 9, 2026

Would not the magic have been equally effective if the “killing” had been practiced upon less realistic images?

From "History of Art, Volume 1" by H.W. Janson




Vocabulary lists containing effective