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Definition of effectnext
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effect

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verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb effect contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of effect are accomplish, achieve, discharge, execute, fulfill, and perform. While all these words mean "to carry out or into effect," effect adds to achieve an emphasis on the inherent force in the agent capable of surmounting obstacles.

effected sweeping reforms

When is accomplish a more appropriate choice than effect?

The words accomplish and effect are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, accomplish stresses the successful completion of a process rather than the means of carrying it out.

accomplished everything they set out to do

How are the words achieve and accomplish related as synonyms of effect?

Achieve adds to accomplish the implication of conquered difficulties.

achieve greatness

In what contexts can discharge take the place of effect?

While the synonyms discharge and effect are close in meaning, discharge implies execution and completion of appointed duties or tasks.

discharged his duties

When might execute be a better fit than effect?

Although the words execute and effect have much in common, execute stresses the carrying out of what exists in plan or in intent.

executed the hit-and-run

When can fulfill be used instead of effect?

While in some cases nearly identical to effect, fulfill implies a complete realization of ends or possibilities.

fulfilled their ambitions

When would perform be a good substitute for effect?

The meanings of perform and effect largely overlap; however, perform implies action that follows established patterns or procedures or fulfills agreed-upon requirements and often connotes special skill.

performed gymnastics

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of effect
Noun
In The Scenario, reporter Kirbie Johnson takes readers behind the scenes of the buzziest movies and TV shows to reveal how the best wigs, special-effects makeup, and more are created. Kirbie Johnson, Allure, 3 July 2026 The spill posed concerns about possible environmental effects. Phil Helsel, NBC news, 3 July 2026 Loose waves and smudged eye makeup, sharpened with pink at the inner corners, kept the effect closer to one of her stage looks. Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 3 July 2026 That means potential or even likely effects on the elderly, the young or those with medical issues. Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for effect
Recent Examples of Synonyms for effect
Noun
  • What Othram testing could mean in Murdaugh’s case The request for Othram testing does not mean the unknown DNA will change the outcome of Murdaugh’s case.
    Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2026
  • The outcome, coupled with a result in the previous game, keeps alive the potential for a Colombia-Argentina quarterfinal here next Saturday, July 11.
    Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 4 July 2026
Noun
  • In another recent study on the impact of AI on jobs, the California AI-unemployment tracker examined the state across industries, education levels and region and highlighted some worrying trends.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2026
  • Alexandra Koch is a Fox News Digital Editor, with a focus on high-impact events that shape national conversation.
    Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026
Noun
  • Mogbo grabbed the rebound, setting up Sacramento’s final possession.
    Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 5 July 2026
  • The score might not suggest dominance, but Colombia controlled the game from the outset and held possession for nearly two-thirds of the match.
    Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 4 July 2026
Verb
  • The announcement came just hours after the Supreme Court handed a major victory to the makers of the weedkiller Roundup, shielding it from thousands of lawsuits from states alleging the company failed to warn people the product could cause cancer.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026
  • Any worries about complacency were wiped away in the third minute when Auston Trusty fired home the opening goal and caused the stands at SoFi Stadium to shake (literally) with the noise and jumping fans.
    Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 26 June 2026
Noun
  • The result is uncommon room layouts like the tri-suite king room equipped with two twin-sized beds and a king bed split by a privacy divider that doubles as a playful art installation.
    Kailyn Brown, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026
  • This look leans more subdued and boho with its all-black layers and accessories, but feel free to experiment with contrasting tones and more color for a bolder result.
    Katherine J Igoe, InStyle, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • Its influence traveled through a globally recognizable set of products and ideals, all centered on the American Dream.
    Amy Francombe, Vogue, 29 June 2026
  • He was raised in Tiberias and Eilat, outside Israel’s traditional centers of power and influence.
    Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 29 June 2026
Noun
  • Understand insurance coverage and document belongings If your home is damaged during a hurricane, dealing with insurance can be a pain.
    Faith Wakefield, USA Today, 2 July 2026
  • Fox News Digital previously reported that cruise lines have also been dealing with a similar battle over poolside loungers, as passengers use towels, bags and other belongings to reserve chairs for hours without actually using them.
    Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2026
Verb
  • Both men argue Los Angeles should consider creating a dedicated anti-squatter task force to help law enforcement distinguish legitimate tenant disputes from cases involving criminal conduct.
    Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2026
  • The relaxed fit keeps air circulating while the long skirt design creates an effortless silhouette.
    Aashna Gheewalla, PEOPLE, 5 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Effect.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/effect. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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