effective

adjective
UK: /ɪˈfektɪv/
US: /ɪˈfektɪv/

  1. Producing the result that was wanted or intended.

    1. The medicine was very effective for my headache. [ ] [ ]
    2. This new approach proved effective in reducing crime rates significantly. [ ] [ ]

  2. Successful in producing a desired or intended result.

    1. Her speech was an effective call to action. [ ] [ ]
    2. The company's marketing campaign was highly effective, boosting sales by 20%. [ ] [ ]

  3. In operation; in force; having legal force.

    1. The new law is effective from January 1st. [ ] [ ]
    2. The contract becomes effective upon signing by both parties involved. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

valid productive successful efficient operative

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "effective" in English means: Producing the result that was wanted or intended., Successful in producing a desired or intended result., In operation; in force; having legal force..

The phonetic transcription of "effective" is /ɪˈfektɪv/ in British English and /ɪˈfektɪv/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "effective": valid, productive, successful, efficient, operative.

Example usage of "effective": "The medicine was very effective for my headache.". More examples on the page.