EFFECTIVE Synonyms: 196 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'effective' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of effective are effectual , efficacious , and efficient . While all these words mean "producing or capable of producing a result," effective stresses the actual production of or the power to produce an effect. // an effective rebuttal

Q: When can 'effectual' be used instead of 'effective'?

The words effectual and effective can be used in similar contexts, but effectual suggests the accomplishment of a desired result especially as viewed after the fact. // the measures to stop the pilfering proved effectual

Q: When could 'efficacious' be used to replace 'effective'?

The words efficacious and effective are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, efficacious suggests possession of a special quality or virtue that gives effective power. // a detergent that is efficacious in removing grease

Q: Where would 'efficient' be a reasonable alternative to 'effective'?

While in some cases nearly identical to effective , efficient suggests an acting or a potential for action or use in such a way as to avoid loss or waste of energy in effecting, producing, or functioning. // an efficient small car

effective

adjective

i-ˈfek-tiv

Definition of effective next

as in efficient

producing or capable of producing a desired result an effective treatment of the once-dreaded disease gave an effective speech that won over many undecided voters

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in compelling

having the power to persuade made an effective argument in favor of the proposal

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in actual

existing in fact and not merely as a possibility made the mistake of confusing the plant's production capacity with its effective output

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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effective communication

meaningful communication

persuasive communication

good communication

successful communication

essential communication

an effective tool

an useful tool

an efficient tool

a potent tool

a powerful tool

a viable tool

an effective dose

a sufficient dose

an adequate dose

a potent dose

a healthy dose

a significant dose

effective management

productive management

successful management

proper management

high-impact management

efficient management

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective effective contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of effective are effectual, efficacious, and efficient. While all these words mean "producing or capable of producing a result," effective stresses the actual production of or the power to produce an effect.

an effective rebuttal

When can effectual be used instead of effective?

The words effectual and effective can be used in similar contexts, but effectual suggests the accomplishment of a desired result especially as viewed after the fact.

the measures to stop the pilfering proved effectual

When could efficacious be used to replace effective?

The words efficacious and effective are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, efficacious suggests possession of a special quality or virtue that gives effective power.

a detergent that is efficacious in removing grease

Where would efficient be a reasonable alternative to effective?

While in some cases nearly identical to effective, efficient suggests an acting or a potential for action or use in such a way as to avoid loss or waste of energy in effecting, producing, or functioning.

an efficient small car

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of effective Shusterman, based in Greenville, South Carolina, explained that medics miss the window to provide effective treatment when symptoms are ignored. —

Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 15 Feb. 2025 But this is exceptional pulp, and Chaney and Crawford are startlingly effective. —

Michael Phillips, Chicago Tribune, 15 Feb. 2025 There have been some reports that this year’s flu vaccine might be less effective than in previous years, which could explain the apparent high levels of sickness that are currently around. —

Tanya Lewis, Scientific American, 4 Feb. 2025 Its exceptional range and unparalleled accuracy allow for effective engagement of enemy outposts, battle zones, and rear areas. —

David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for effective

Recent Examples of Synonyms for effective

Adjective

Future Perfect Explore the big, complicated problems the world faces and the most efficient ways to solve them.

— Jess Craig, Vox, 17 Feb. 2025
Seniors Taylor Jones and Rori Harmon are excellent on the defensive end, and junior Kyla Oldacre is a quick, efficient bucket off the bench.

— Steven Louis Goldstein, The Athletic, 16 Feb. 2025