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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.

A new study has provided the first comprehensive estimate of koala numbers in the region and identified a humane, cost effective strategy to keep the population at sustainable levels.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026

Eli Lilly LLY 0.55%increase; green up pointing triangle shares rose in early European trade after a late-stage trial showed its drug was effective in weight loss and in alleviating obesity-linked conditions.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

Both companies have said that the majority of the new prescriptions are for new users of GLP-1s, not people switching from the more effective and expensive injections.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

"But we still haven't seen a single measure that is effective in reducing the number of tourists."

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026

Proper medical treatment couldn’t be effective, Farmer believed, without serving a patient’s other needs: basic education, habitable housing, clean water, food security, and hope for a better future.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French




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