B1adverb2K

Effectively

UK /["/ɪˈfektɪvli/"]/US /["/ɪˈfektɪvli/"]/

Definition

in a way that produces the intended result or a successful result

In simple words: In a way that produces a desired result.

Examples

  • The company must reduce costs to compete effectively.
  • Managers must be able to **work effectively** in a cooperative setting.
  • Most job interviews focus on the candidate's ability to **communicate effectively**.
  • You dealt with the situation very effectively.
  • The truth of this statement has been effectively demonstrated in Chapter 1.
  • The government has now effectively ruled out tax cuts.
  • The war itself did not effectively end until two years later.
  • He was very polite but effectively he was telling me that I had no chance of getting the job.
  • Effectively, this means that companies will be able to avoid the regulations.

Usage notes

Use 'effectively' in contexts where you want to emphasize the success or efficiency of an action. It is suitable for both spoken and written English but is often found in more formal settings.

Grammar pattern

effectively + verb

Memory hint

Think of 'effectively' as 'effective leaf' – a leaf that does its job well!

Collocations

  • communicate effectively
  • manage time effectively
  • work effectively

Synonyms

  • efficiently
  • successfully
  • competently
  • capably
  • proficiently

Antonyms

  • ineffectively
  • inefficiently

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'effect' – remember 'effectively' relates to how well something is done.
  • Using 'effectively' in a non-action context, such as saying 'effectively' in a greeting.
  • Incorrectly placing 'effectively' in sentences, where it doesn't modify the right verb.