effective

9 definitions • 17 examples

successful or achieving the results that you want:

The lighting for the production made a very effective use of shadow.

She's a very effective teacher.

This style of decoration is simple yet effective.

(used about a treatment or drug) working well when used by people in general, as opposed to only under carefully controlled scientific testing conditions:

How effective a drug is depends on many factors, including how consistently the patient follows the instructions for taking it.

It's an extremely effective cure for a headache.

in fact, although not officially:

Although she's not officially our boss, she's in effective control of the office.

If a law or rule becomes effective, it starts to be used:

The new laws will become effective next month.

producing the intended results, or (of a person) skilled or able to do something well:

an effective policy/strategy

We’ve found that giving away samples of our product is the most effective way to promote it.

She’s an effective administrator and knows how to get things done.

(of rules or laws) in official or legal use:

The law becomes effective next month.

successful in achieving the result that you want:

You need a workable, effective strategy for developing your business.

Personal charisma alone does not make someone an effective leader.

The consumer council must have clear duties and strong powers if it is to be effective.

having started to operate or be used:

The new Investment Management Agreements became effective on 1st November.

He announced his resignation, effective immediately.

used to describe what is actually true, although it may not be intended or stated:

The remainder of the stock is owned by a consortium of banks which are in effective control of the hotel.