effective

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

adjective producing or capable of producing an intended result or having a striking effect; -LewisMumford
adjective able to accomplish a purpose; functioning effectively; -G.B.Shaw
adjective works well as a means or remedy

From French effectif, from Latin effectīvus (“productive; effective”), from efficiō (“to make; to bring about”), equivalent to effect + -ive.

It was an effective miracle. — A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court, Mark Twain
It was, at least, absolutely effective. — The Hound of the Baskervilles, Arthur Conan Doyle
A little thick, thought Miles, but effective. — Terminal Compromise, Winn Schwartau

effectual, efficacious

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