Synonyms for effective

Synonyms for (adj) effective

Synonyms: effective

Definition: existing in fact; not theoretical; real

Usage: a decline in the effective demand; confused increased equipment and expenditure with the quantity of effective work done

Similar words: actual, existent

Definition: presently existing in fact and not merely potential or possible

Usage: the predicted temperature and the actual temperature were markedly different; actual and imagined conditions


Synonyms: effective, efficient

Definition: able to accomplish a purpose; functioning effectively

Usage: people who will do nothing unless they get something out of it for themselves are often highly effective persons...-G.B.Shaw; effective personnel; an efficient secretary; the efficient cause of the revolution

Similar words: competent

Definition: properly or sufficiently qualified or capable or efficient

Usage: a competent typist


Synonyms: in effect, in force, good, effective

Definition: exerting force or influence

Usage: the law is effective immediately; a warranty good for two years; the law is already in effect (or in force)

Similar words: operative

Definition: being in force or having or exerting force

Usage: operative regulations; the major tendencies operative in the American political system


Synonyms: effective, effectual, efficacious

Definition: producing or capable of producing an intended result or having a striking effect

Usage: an air-cooled motor was more effective than a witch's broomstick for rapid long-distance transportation-LewisMumford; effective teaching methods; effective steps toward peace; made an effective entrance; his complaint proved to be effectual in bringing action; an efficacious law

Similar words: hard-hitting, trenchant

Definition: characterized by or full of force and vigor

Usage: a hard-hitting expose; a trenchant argument


Similar words: impelling

Definition: markedly effective as if by emotional pressure

Usage: impelling skill as a teller of tales; an impelling personality


Similar words: impressive, telling

Definition: producing a strong effect

Usage: gave an impressive performance as Othello; a telling gesture


Similar words: rough-and-ready

Definition: crude but effective for the purpose at hand


Synonyms: effective

Definition: works well as a means or remedy

Usage: an effective reprimand; a lotion that is effective in cases of prickly heat

Similar words: efficacious

Definition: marked by qualities giving the power to produce an intended effect

Usage: written propaganda is less efficacious than the habits and prejudices...of the readers-Aldous Huxley; the medicine is efficacious in stopping a cough


Synonyms: effective

Definition: ready for service

Usage: the fort was held by about 100 effective soldiers

Similar words: operational

Definition: (military) of or intended for or involved in military operations


Visual thesaurus for effective