adjective

effectual

ih-FEK-choo-ul/ɪˈfektʃuəl/

Successful in producing the intended result.

The doorstop proves effectual, holding the heavy door securely open.

A properly secured doorstop holds a heavy door open successfully.

Etymology

efLatinout

+fectLatinto make, do

+ualLatinrelating to

“Out” and “make” underlie the Latin idea of accomplishing something, and then the noun “accomplishment.” Effectual applies this idea especially to an action that achieves its intended result.

In context

Allellu317:28

Of all the means I know to lead men, the most effectual is a concealed mystery. The hankering of the mind is irresistible.

Proofs of a Conspiracy [Part 1 of 2] by John Robison | Full Audiobook, Read-Along

More examples

The treatment is effectual only when patients take it regularly.
They seek an effectual way to keep mice out.
Warnings alone are not effectual in stopping the noise.

Forms

effectual · more effectual · most effectual

effectually adverb — In a way that achieves the intended result.

Similar words

effective: Effective is more common and suits a wider range of contexts.
efficacious: Efficacious usually describes treatments or remedies shown to work.
successful: Successful describes overall achievement, not necessarily a particular means.