Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective efficient contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of efficient are effective, effectual, and efficacious. While all these words mean "producing or capable of producing a result," efficient suggests an acting or a potential for action or use in such a way as to avoid loss or waste of energy in effecting, producing, or functioning.

an efficient small car

In what contexts can effective take the place of efficient?

While in some cases nearly identical to efficient, effective stresses the actual production of or the power to produce an effect.

an effective rebuttal

When would effectual be a good substitute for efficient?

The words effectual and efficient are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, effectual suggests the accomplishment of a desired result especially as viewed after the fact.

the measures to stop the pilfering proved effectual

Where would efficacious be a reasonable alternative to efficient?

The synonyms efficacious and efficient are sometimes interchangeable, but efficacious suggests possession of a special quality or virtue that gives effective power.

a detergent that is efficacious in removing grease

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 efficient As such, the tool is not just significantly stronger but enduring, allowing for an efficient way to detect and light up hard-to-find virus particles with a single reaction. Bronwyn Thompson, New Atlas, 3 June 2025 The military's motive for funding nuclear thermal propulsion was its potential for becoming a more efficient means of maneuvering around the Earth. Stephen Clark – Jun 3, ArsTechnica, 3 June 2025 Plant life or other obstacles in front of vents can make units less efficient, Wolfe noted. Anne Marie D. Lee, CBS News, 3 June 2025 Life hacks are methods for making daily tasks easier, more efficient, or more enjoyable. Paul McClure 24, New Atlas, 24 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for efficient
Recent Examples of Synonyms for efficient
Adjective
  • Instead, the revolutionaries relied on more subtle but equally effective means: publicly humiliating prominent loyalists and destroying their stature in the local community.
    Greg Daugherty, Smithsonian Magazine, 4 June 2025
  • Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective against measles.
    Deidre McPhillips, CNN Money, 4 June 2025
Adjective
  • Nor can discussions be productive without acknowledging the existence of both parties’ perspectives.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025
  • The pandemic taught companies that employees working at home could still be productive.
    Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 31 May 2025
Adjective
  • Worthy Park Estate 109 Rum From the heart of Jamaica, Worthy Park's 109 is a potent invitation to pure, unadulterated rum flavor.
    Hudson Lindenberger, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025
  • His potent bat has carried the lineup in two of his first three seasons in town, the other being slowed by his first foot injury.
    Dan Hayes, New York Times, 2 June 2025

Cite this Entry

“Efficient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/efficient. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on efficient

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