effective
[ ih-fek-tiv ]
/ ɪˈfɛk tɪv /
adjective
adequate to accomplish a purpose; producing the intended or expected result: effective teaching methods; effective steps toward peace.
actually in operation or in force; functioning: The law becomes effective at midnight.
producing a deep or vivid impression; striking: an effective photograph.
prepared and available for service, especially military service.
noun
a member of the armed forces fit for duty or active service.
the effective total of a military force.
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Origin of effective
SYNONYMS FOR effective
1 capable, competent. Effective, effectual, efficacious, efficient refer to that which is able to produce a (desired) effect. Effective is applied to that which has the power to, or which actually does, produce an effect: an effective action, 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.
2 operative.
3 telling.
Related forms
Can be confused
affective effective (see synonym study at the current entry)Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
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British Dictionary definitions for effective
effective
/ (ɪˈfɛktɪv) /
adjective
noun
a serviceman who is equipped and prepared for action
Derived Forms
effectively, adverbeffectiveness, nounCollins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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