effective, effectual, efficacious -- (producing or capable of producing an intended result or having a striking effect; "an air-cooled motor was more effective than a witch's broomstick for rapid long-distance transportation"-LewisMumford; "effective teaching methods"; "effective steps toward peace"; "made an effective entrance"; "his complaint proved to be effectual in bringing action"; "an efficacious law")
effective, efficient -- (able to accomplish a purpose; functioning effectively; "people who will do nothing unless they get something out of it for themselves are often highly effective persons..."-G.B.Shaw; "effective personnel"; "an efficient secretary"; "the efficient cause of the revolution")
effective -- (works well as a means or remedy; "an effective reprimand"; "a lotion that is effective in cases of prickly heat")
effective, good, in effect, in force -- (exerting force or influence; "the law is effective immediately"; "a warranty good for two years"; "the law is already in effect (or in force)")
effective -- (existing in fact; not theoretical; real; "a decline in the effective demand"; "confused increased equipment and expenditure with the quantity of effective work done")
effective -- (ready for service; "the fort was held by about 100 effective soldiers")