Words / B1

i-FEKT-iv/ɪˈfektɪv/

Effective means it produces the result you want: an effective method; effective immediately. Efficient means little waste of time or energy — a common exam pair. A medicine can be effective but slow; a process can be efficient but still fail. Effect is the noun (the effect of); affect is usually the verb. Effectiveness is the noun from effective.

Meaning

Producing the result that you want.

Examples

• “This is an effective way to remember new words.”
• “The new signs were effective in reducing accidents.”
• “We need a more effective way to collect feedback.”

Good to know

effective + noun. Little waste: efficient. Noun: effectiveness / effect. Verb neighbour: affect.

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