to that effect
phrase
variants
or to the effect that
—used to indicate that the meaning of words is roughly correct even if the words themselves are not completely accurate
He said more time was needed to reach a decision, or words to that effect.
Examples of to that effect in a Sentence
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In my view, statements to that effect are shortsighted, prioritizing short-term social effects over more insidious and long-term issues, including addiction.
—
Emma Fenske,
The Conversation,
2 July 2026
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Emma Fenske,
The Conversation,
2 July 2026
Cite this Entry
“To that effect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/to%20that%20effect. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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