— effectively , adv. — effectiveness, effectivity , n.
/i fek"tiv/ , adj.
1. adequate to accomplish a purpose; producing the intended or expected result: effective teaching methods; effective steps toward peace.
2. actually in operation or in force; functioning: The law becomes effective at midnight.
3. producing a deep or vivid impression; striking: an effective photograph.
4. prepared and available for service, esp. military service.
n.
5. a member of the armed forces fit for duty or active service.
6. the effective total of a military force.
[ 1350-1400; ME effectivus practical, equiv. to effect ( us ), ptp. of efficere (see EFFECT) + -ivus -IVE ]
Syn. 1. capable, competent. EFFECTIVE, EFFECTUAL, EFFICACIOUS, EFFICIENT refer to that which is able to produce a (desired) effect. EFFECTIVE is applied to that which has the power to, or which actually does, produce an effect: an effective action, remedy, speech. EFFECTUAL is used esp. of that which produces the effect desired or intended, or a decisive result: An effectual bombardment silenced the enemy. EFFICACIOUS suggests the capability of achieving a certain end: an efficacious plan, medicine. EFFICIENT (applied also to persons) implies the skillful use of energy or industry to accomplish desired results with little waste of effort: efficient methods; an efficient manager. 2. operative. 3. telling.
Ant. 1. futile, useless.