Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for effective. Search instead for effektivster.
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.

Kanin is resigning, effective June 11, and fiduciary Jodi Pais Montgomery will take over managing the trust.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026

The JAA also mandates annual climate surveys: Quantifying the scope of these problems is the first step toward crafting effective solutions.

From Slate • Jun. 8, 2026

The drug was also effective in relieving obesity-linked conditions, including knee pain, sleep apnea and type 2 diabetes, the company said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

Resetting the heart "is like switching a computer off and on again", he explains, adding that ICDs are "highly effective devices".

From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026

Savery’s engine, and Papin’s second engine, needed to build up a high pressure in order to be effective but, in practice, boilers and cylinders could not be made that withstood such pressure.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton




Vocabulary lists containing effective


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "effective" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com