What's the difference between EFFECTIVE and EFFICIENT?
These two qualitative adjectives are often confused. If somebody or something is EFFICIENT, then he, she or it works in a well-organised way, without wasting time or energy.
Consider the following examples:
She was efficient in everything she did and was frequently commended for exemplary service to the organisation.
He has not made very efficient use of his time in revising for these exams: he has made no notes and his concentration spans appear to last for no longer than ten minutes.
This engine is really efficient, it can run for 30 km on only 1 litre of fuel.
If something is EFFECTIVE, it works well and produces the results that were intended.
Consider the following examples:
These tablets really are effective. My headache is much better now.
The only effective way to avoid hay fever at this time of the year, if you are a sufferer, is to stay indoors.