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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 even after scientists identify the genes involved, turning that knowledge into effective treatments has remained extremely difficult.

From Science Daily • May 21, 2026

Genetic risk can be detected, but there’s no effective treatment or cure.

From Barron's • May 21, 2026

The study’s results are the latest signal that retatrutide may be the most effective weight-loss medication in development.

From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026

So far they're the only effective weapon to take down Russian ballistic missiles.

From BBC • May 21, 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




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