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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.

This expands current understanding of why mitochondria become less effective over time and highlights membrane lipid dynamics as another important factor in the aging process.

From Science Daily • Jun. 11, 2026

Newer studies found that microfinance is effective at helping existing entrepreneurs expand their businesses.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

But the 24-year-old, a finalist at Queen's last year, showed why she is so effective on grass with a commanding 6-1 6-3 win over world number 44 Siegemund.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

And unlike many wealthy self-funders, Steyer did not leap into a campaign as a political neophyte who assumed their business skills would translate into being an effective elected official.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

Kepler was never able to be an effective observer of the heavens because of his bad eyesight, and in Graz he had no access to observational data.

From "The Scientists" by John Gribbin




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