Looking up...
effective
/ɪˈfɛktɪv/
efficace
The new policy was effective immediately.
La nouvelle politique était efficace immédiatement.
formel
Qui produit le résultat souhaité ou prévu.
The drug is effective in reducing symptoms.
Le médicament est efficace pour réduire les symptômes.
She gave an effective presentation.
Elle a fait une présentation efficace.
Often used to describe methods, strategies, or actions that achieve their purpose.
Droit
formel
Qui est en vigueur ou en application.
The law becomes effective next month.
La loi entre en vigueur le mois prochain.
Common in legal and administrative contexts.
Collocations
effective immediatelyimmédiatement efficace / avec effet immédiatcost-effectiverentable / économiqueeffective datedate d'entrée en vigueur
Antonymes
Conseil pro
Distinction between 'effective' and 'efficient'
In English, 'effective' means achieving a goal, while 'efficient' means achieving it with minimal waste. In French, 'efficace' covers both, but 'rentable' or 'économique' can clarify efficiency.
Origine du mot
From Latin *effectivus*, from *effectus* (effect), from *efficere* (to bring about), from *ex-* (out) + *facere* (to make).
Notes d'usage
In French, 'efficace' is the direct equivalent, but 'effectif' can also be used in legal contexts (e.g., 'date effective'). Avoid confusing 'effective' with 'efficient'—the former emphasizes achieving a result, while the latter emphasizes achieving it with minimal waste of time or resources.
Décomposition du mot
ef-
from Latin *ex-* (out)
prefix-fect-
from Latin *facere* (to make)
root-ive
suffix forming adjectives (having the quality of)
suffixDictionnaire Anglais-Français