Effectively
/ɪˈfɛktɪvli/
Definitions
2 meaningsIn a way that achieves the best possible result; successfully.
/ɪˈfɛktɪvli/
In a way that produces a desired or intended result.
The team worked effectively to solve the problem.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're building a Lego tower. If you build it *effectively*, it stands tall and doesn't fall down! It means you did it in a way that works well and achieves your goal.
👶 For kids: Doing something in a way that works!
More Examples
The new policy was implemented effectively.
She communicated her ideas effectively to the audience.
The medicine treated the illness effectively.
How It's Used
"The new marketing campaign increased sales effectively."
"The drug treatment worked effectively in reducing the symptoms."
"She managed her time effectively to finish all her tasks."
In reality, although not officially or in name.
/ɪˈfɛktɪvli/
In fact; in reality.
He is effectively the manager, although he hasn't been promoted.
💡 Simply: Imagine your friend is always making decisions, even though someone else is *supposed* to be in charge. Effectively, your friend IS in charge, even if it's not written down anywhere.
👶 For kids: It's like something *is* something, even if it doesn't seem like it!
More Examples
The project has effectively been abandoned.
The company is effectively bankrupt.
She was effectively blocked from pursuing her dreams.
How It's Used
"The contract was effectively null and void due to a breach of terms."
"He's effectively the boss, even though he doesn't have the title."
Idioms & expressions
effectively communicate
To convey information or ideas in a way that is easily understood and achieves the desired result.
"The teacher can effectively communicate complex concepts to students."
effectively manage
To handle or control something in a way that achieves the desired goals or outcomes.
"A good project manager can effectively manage a complex project."
From Middle English *effectiveliche*, equivalent to effective + -ly. 'Effective' derives from Latin *effectivus*, meaning 'producing an effect'.
The adverb 'effectively' has been used in English since the 17th century, and gained prominence in the 19th and 20th centuries to emphasize actions that achieve intended results.
Memory tip
Think of the word 'effect' and how something produces a result. Effectively means doing something in a way that *causes* that desired result.
Word Origin
"accomplished, performed"