effectively
gb/ɪfˈɛktɪvli/ us/ɪfˈɛktɪvli/
B1
English
~ 1900
Senses
0 senses
adverb
B1
property
1
in a successful or efficient way
In a way that works well and gets the right result.
Usage pattern:
to [do something] effectively
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'effectively' with 'efficiently'; 'effectively' is about achieving the goal, while 'efficiently' is about using minimal resources.
Synonyms
efficiently (Focuses more on minimal waste of time or resources.)
Antonyms
ineffectively (Describes doing something in a way that fails to achieve the goal.)
Collocations
work effectively
|communicate effectively
|manage effectively
|function effectively
|operate effectively
Themes
work
|communication
|daily life
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- The team worked effectively to finish the project ahead of schedule.
- She communicates effectively with both clients and colleagues.
- The new software allows us to manage our time more effectively.
- He dealt with the crisis effectively and calmly.
- The medicine works effectively to reduce pain.
Learner examples
- We worked effectively as a team.
- She speaks clearly and effectively.
- The tool cuts wood effectively.
- He solved the problem effectively.
- The teacher teaches English effectively.
adverb
B2
relation
2
in fact or in practice
Used to say what is true in real life, even if it is not officially true.
Common mistake:
Learners may confuse this sense with 'officially'; 'effectively' here refers to practical reality, not legal or formal status.
Synonyms
practically (Very close in meaning, but slightly more informal.)
Antonyms
theoretically (Focuses on what is true in theory rather than in practice.)
Collocations
effectively means
|effectively becomes
|effectively making
|is effectively
Themes
communication
|logic
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- With no one opposing him, he is effectively the leader of the group.
- The two companies have effectively merged, even without a formal agreement.
- By refusing to sign, she has effectively ended the negotiations.
- They are effectively bankrupt, though they haven’t declared it yet.
- This rule change will effectively ban smoking in public places.
Learner examples
- He is effectively the boss now.
- The shop is effectively closed.
- They are effectively married.
- The rule will effectively stop people from smoking here.
- The two teams are effectively one team now.
Grammar
Dictionary form
effectively
IPA
GB/ɪfˈɛktɪvli/
US/ɪfˈɛktɪvli/
Syllables & stress
ef - fect - ively (3 syllables)
Stress on 2nd syllable (fect)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: effectively
- Plural: effectivelies
Word family
Forms
effectivelies
noun
Core family
Negative and opposite forms
Advanced or less common
effectual
adjective C1
ineffectual
adjective
Expressions
function effectively
1/fˈʌŋkʃən ɪfˈɛktɪvli/
fixed phrase
operate in a successful way
To work or run in a way that gives good results.
Examples
- Without enough sleep, you cannot function effectively at work.
- The machine will not function effectively without regular maintenance.
work effectively
1/wˈɚk ɪfˈɛktɪvli/
fixed phrase
do work successfully and well
To do your job or tasks in a way that gets good results.
Examples
- To meet the deadline, we all need to work effectively as a team.
- He works more effectively when he takes regular breaks.
communicate effectively
1/kəmjˈunɪkˌeɪt ɪfˈɛktɪvli/
fixed phrase
share information successfully
To give information in a way that people understand well.
Examples
- Managers must communicate effectively with their staff.
- Teachers must learn how to communicate effectively.
- She communicates more effectively in writing than speaking.
- We need to communicate effectively during emergencies.