take effect

idiomatic phrase

1
: to become operative
The new regulations will take effect next year.
2
: to begin producing an expected or intended effect or result
waiting for the drug to take effect

Examples of take effect in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Here’s advice on how to navigate grocery stores once the law takes effect, from The Times’ Sandra McDonald. Sammy Roth, Los Angeles Times, 10 Dec. 2024 In 2022, a Justice Department rule took effect that made weapons parts kits subject to the same regulations as traditional firearms, including requiring commercial sellers to become federally licensed, mark certain parts with serial numbers and run background checks on purchasers. Rachel Treisman, NPR, 10 Dec. 2024 Before the enhanced tax credits took effect, people with incomes above 400% of the federal poverty line -- about $58,000 for an individual or $120,000 for a household of four people -- were not eligible for assistance with ACA premiums. Dan Diamond and Rachel Roubein The Washington Post, arkansasonline.com, 7 Dec. 2024 The parties asked the judges to make a decision by Friday so there is enough time for the high court to review the case before the law takes effect. Caitlin Yilek, CBS News, 6 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for take effect 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of take effect was in the 14th century

Cite this Entry

“Take effect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20effect. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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