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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
Much of the law goes into effect in July. Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 7 Jan. 2026 Would the next Roberto Benigni podium-hurdle, envelope mix-up or even Slap have the same seismic cultural effect in a YouTube window? Seth Abramovitch, HollywoodReporter, 7 Jan. 2026 But using too much can actually have negative effects for you and your clothes. Elizabeth Brownfield, Southern Living, 7 Jan. 2026 The practical effect will be felt in clinics across the country. Jake Scott, Washington Post, 7 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for effect
Recent Examples of Synonyms for effect
Noun
  • The highly skilled team — including neonatologists, nurses, respiratory therapists, and pediatric specialists — provides immediate access to advanced treatments and technology, improving outcomes and offering families peace of mind.
    MemorialCare Medical Group, Oc Register, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Participation and learning outcomes must first be approved by a licensed educator.
    Hope Moses, Chicago Tribune, 10 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Ittaps into themes of toxic masculinity and unveils the impact social media has on young people.
    Yamillah Hurtado, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026
  • The impact Each missed opportunity to add or retain a star has saved the Red Sox countless millions.
    Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 12 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Zubimendi won possession 12 times during that match — the most by any Arsenal player in a game this season.
    Thom Harris, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2026
  • Troopers also seized an unregistered gun and ammunition from Cook, who is charged with trafficking 200 grams or more of cocaine, as well as unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
    Tim Dunn, Boston Herald, 7 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Be sure to rinse the gasket well to prevent the vinegar from drying out the rubber and causing cracks.
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Its main purpose is to act as a sealant to keep water from getting behind the tiles to cause mold or mildew to develop in the wall.
    Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 10 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • This move risks dangerous results from the military and security establishment in the country, as well as the substantial Cuban contingent working in the security sphere.
    Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 8 Jan. 2026
  • According to Fox 5, citing a flight expert, the unusual incident may not have been the result of a hard landing, but a possible malfunction in the aircraft’s automatic braking system.
    Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 8 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Here’s everything to know about her mental health history and the religious influence that allegedly distorted her beliefs.
    KC Baker, PEOPLE, 11 Jan. 2026
  • The band had a range of influences, from blues and psychedelia, to country, folk and blues.
    Adam Levine, CNN Money, 11 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Rourke’s longtime assistant is on vacation, and while his team was first trying to avoid eviction altogether, the actor suddenly needed a new place to stay, movers and a storage shed for his belongings, none of which were in the offing.
    Tom Tapp, Deadline, 6 Jan. 2026
  • The suspects hit him with the rifles and demanded belongings from him.
    Angie DiMichele, Sun Sentinel, 5 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The Horned Frogs are far from an offensive juggernaut, but TCU has typically been able to create open looks off the pick-and-roll with Harding or by feeding Punch in the post.
    Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Jan. 2026
  • Teachers' associations from Natomas, Rocklin, Twin Rivers, West Sacramento and Woodland used art supplies on Saturday to create signs of solidarity.
    Madisen Keavy, CBS News, 11 Jan. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Effect.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/effect. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on effect

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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