take effect

idiomatic phrase

Synonyms of take effectnext
1
: to become operative
The new regulations will take effect next year.
2
: to begin producing an expected or intended effect or result
waiting for the drug to take effect

Examples of take effect in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Stepanova says the early 2025 rate change was implemented to recover costs associated with upgrades to safety and reliability upgrades to natural gas infrastructure, saying a portion of the update took effect in late 2024. Tim Dunn, Boston Herald, 22 Feb. 2026 The new law takes effect Thursday. John Hanna, Los Angeles Times, 22 Feb. 2026 The new tariffs take effect early Tuesday morning and will be in place for 150 days. Joe Walsh, CBS News, 21 Feb. 2026 The White House did not respond to CNN’s request for comment on whether the 15% tariff will take effect on Tuesday. Auzinea Bacon, CNN Money, 21 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for take effect

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of take effect was in the 14th century

Cite this Entry

“Take effect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20effect. Accessed 23 Feb. 2026.

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