in effect
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For all practical purposes, as in This testimony in effect contradicted her earlier statement. [Late 1500s]
In or into operation, as in This law will be in effect in January. Related phrases include go into effect and take effect, which mean “become operative,” as in This law goes into effect January 1, or It takes effect January 1. Similarly, put into effect means “make operative,” as in When will the judge's ruling be put into effect? [Late 1700s] Also see in force, def. 2.
QUIZ
GOOSES. GEESES. I WANT THIS QUIZ ON PLURAL NOUNS!
Test how much you really know about regular and irregular plural nouns with this quiz.
Question 1 of 9
Which of the following nouns has an irregular plural form?
Words nearby in effect
inedited, ineducable, ineducation, ineffable, ineffaceable, in effect, ineffective, ineffectual, inefficacious, inefficacy, inefficiency
The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.