EFFICIENT Synonyms: 75 Similar and Opposite Words

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

Some common synonyms of efficient are effective , effectual , and efficacious . While all these words mean "producing or capable of producing a result," 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

Q: In what contexts can 'effective' take the place of 'efficient'?

While in some cases nearly identical to efficient , effective stresses the actual production of or the power to produce an effect. // an effective rebuttal

Q: When would 'effectual' be a good substitute for 'efficient'?

The words effectual and efficient are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, effectual suggests the accomplishment of a desired result especially as viewed after the fact. // the measures to stop the pilfering proved effectual

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

The synonyms efficacious and efficient are sometimes interchangeable, but efficacious suggests possession of a special quality or virtue that gives effective power. // a detergent that is efficacious in removing grease

efficient

adjective

i-ˈfi-shənt

Definition of efficient next

as in effective

producing or capable of producing a desired result that manual lawn mower is not a very efficient tool for doing a huge yard

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How does the adjective efficient contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of efficient are effective, effectual, and efficacious. While all these words mean "producing or capable of producing a result," 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

In what contexts can effective take the place of efficient?

While in some cases nearly identical to efficient, effective stresses the actual production of or the power to produce an effect.

an effective rebuttal

When would effectual be a good substitute for efficient?

The words effectual and efficient are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, effectual suggests the accomplishment of a desired result especially as viewed after the fact.

the measures to stop the pilfering proved effectual

Where would efficacious be a reasonable alternative to efficient?

The synonyms efficacious and efficient are sometimes interchangeable, but efficacious suggests possession of a special quality or virtue that gives effective power.

a detergent that is efficacious in removing grease

Examples 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 efficient Lawyers also argue that there could be more efficient ways to do the same work without a billable hours structure that determines pay. —

Prarthana Prakash, Fortune Europe, 5 Nov. 2024 Future Perfect Explore the big, complicated problems the world faces and the most efficient ways to solve them. —

Oshan Jarow, Vox, 4 Nov. 2024 Leverage Existing Skills One of the most efficient ways to transition careers without losing momentum is to apply your existing skills in a new context. —

Q Hamirani, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 Retailers everywhere face similar obstacles—rising demand, increasing complexity, and the pressure to stay efficient in a competitive market. —

Nia Bowers, USA TODAY, 26 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for efficient

Recent Examples of Synonyms for efficient

Adjective

Skyla: Skyla begins working seven days after insertion and is effective for three years.

Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 5 Nov. 2024
There are several effective treatments for postpartum depression, including talk therapy, group therapy, medication, and psychosocial support.7 Who is most at risk of postpartum depression?

Wendy Wisner, Health, 5 Nov. 2024