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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.

The measles-mumps-rubella vaccine is the most effective protection from measles, according to the public health department.

From Los Angeles Times • May 17, 2026

Would it be just as effective to do one intense 30 minute workout each week instead of several shorter sessions spread across multiple days?

From Science Daily • May 16, 2026

The next stage, Matthews explains, is to measure how effective it is in helping women, with the hope it will be rolled out across the NHS.

From BBC • May 16, 2026

Khristof Oborski, Campus Guardian Angel's director of tactical operations, said the firm's CEO Bill King observed that small drones were highly effective in attacks on the battlefield in the war in Ukraine.

From Barron's • May 15, 2026

"I had to find a way to do it. In the country itself I was unable to do any effective work. So, therefore, I had to find a way to leave the country."

From Nazi Saboteurs by Samantha Seiple




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