# effectively

/ˈifɛktɪvɫi/ (US) · /ɪfˈɛktɪvli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/effectively
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. successfully

adverb · CEFR B1

in a way that produces the result you want.

For teachers: in a manner that achieves the desired effect or intended result.

- The new law effectively reduced the amount of plastic waste in the city.
- The marketing team effectively communicated the brand's core values to a younger demographic, resulting in a significant increase in seasonal sales.

### 2. in reality

adverb · CEFR B2

used to say what the real situation is, even if it is not official.

For teachers: used to describe a situation that is true for all practical purposes, though not perhaps officially or theoretically.

- The two companies have merged, so they are effectively one big business now.
- Although the treaty has not been signed yet, the two nations are effectively at peace as all hostilities have ceased.

Usage: Often placed at the beginning of a clause or before the main verb to qualify the entire situation.

## Examples

- She communicates effectively with her team.
- The new law effectively bans smoking in all public parks, though the official wording is more complex.
- By delegating minor tasks to his assistants, the manager was able to focus more effectively on the long-term strategic goals of the corporation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.