efficient

adjective

i-ˈfi-shənt How to pronounce efficient (audio)
Definition of efficientnext
as in effective
producing or capable of producing a desired result that manual lawn mower is not a very efficient tool for doing a huge yard

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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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 Melanoma cells that were the most efficient at metastasis rewired their metabolism, the scientists found. —Amber Dance, Smithsonian Magazine, 4 Apr. 2025 The sulfate-free formula is gentle yet efficient, and the subtle citrus scent adds a pleasant touch to my hair care routine. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 4 Apr. 2025 The efficient airflow also eliminates the need to rotate the trays. —Jordan Liberty Phillips, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Apr. 2025 Public services, from healthcare to transportation, adapt in real time using machine learning, creating a city that is not just efficient but truly responsive to its residents. —Cathy Hackl, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for efficient
Recent Examples of Synonyms for efficient
  1. effective
  2. productive
  3. potent
Adjective
  • Just last week, the president announced a 90-day pause in his tariff agenda, lowering the effective tariff rate on the EU from 20% to 10% while negotiations take place.
    — Christian Datoc, The Washington Examiner, 17 Apr. 2025
  • The Yale University Budget Lab estimates that the inflationary effects of Trump’s tariffs amount to an effective tax of $4,900 per household.
    — Nik Popli, Time, 17 Apr. 2025
Definition of effective
Adjective
  • Ishiba should remind Trump that while the U.S. built an innovative and productive economy, Asia holds the deed.
    — William Pesek, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025
  • Now Washington’s franchise player, Daniels had one of the most poised and productive rookie seasons in NFL history.
    — Nick Baumgardner, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025
Definition of productive
Adjective
  • This threat, while at its most potent with just 24 hours left on the filing deadline clock, will continue to pose a danger to all users for some months to come.
    — Davey Winder, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025
  • This fantasy of reconciliation is especially potent in the series’ later seasons, written and released in the wake of #MeToo.
    — Moira Donegan, New Yorker, 11 Apr. 2025
Definition of potent

Browse Nearby Words

efficiency apartments
efficient
efficiently
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Cite this Entry

“Efficient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/efficient. Accessed 20 Apr. 2025.

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