effective:

(mostly used in plural form — ‘effectives’ especially in American English)

Apart from other meanings/definitions…

a soldier ready to fight – who can actually be used for fighting in a battle,

American effectives in disturbed regions

e.g.

There has been a huge protest from the Afghans living in the States since the US government announced its decision to send more effectives to the battle fronts in Afghanistan.

One of the ten effectives on patrol in the streets of Iraq was wounded and was immediately air-lifted to the nearest military hospital.

Many intellectuals around the world believe that sending more and more military force to calm the situation in disturbed areas makes things more complicated and results in the deaths of more and more effectives who actually face the brunt.

Unlike the effectives (soldiers) in the past, the modern day effectives (soldiers) are equipped with ultra modern effectives (equipment and weapons) and communication system which make their fighting ordeals more bearable.

Compare: ‘effective ~ affective‘ in Words Often Confused
Note 1: ‘Effective’ is more commonly used as an adjective to refer to something that is suitable to produce more or work more, e.g. an ‘effective method’, ‘effective way’, ‘effective teacher’, etc., and also operative and existing, e.g. “The new law comes is effective from today.”
Note 2: ‘Effective’ is also used for a piece of equipment used in actual battle or a piece of equipment ready for use in battle.
Return to “effective ~ efficient” in Words Often Confused.

About the Author:BC Kumar

BC Kumar, an English Language Teacher, taught in numerous countries including Ethiopia, Oman and India, shares his knowledge and passion for the English Language. Disclaimer: This is a free educational website and all content has been compiled by the author. All copyrights to images and videos belong to their respective owners.

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