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"Effective" is an adjective which is often translated as "eficaz", and "helpful" is an adjective which is often translated as "servicial". Learn more about the difference between "effective" and "helpful" below.
effective(
uh
-
fehk
-
tihv
)An adjective is a word that describes a noun (e.g., the big dog).
1. (efficient)
2. (legal)
a. efectivo
The zoning ordinance became effective as of August 16, 2010.El reglamento de zonificación se hizo efectivo a partir del 16 de agosto de 2010.
b. en vigor
Stiffer penalties for fraud become effective on the first of next month.Los castigos más severos por fraude entrarán en vigor a partir del primero del próximo mes.
c. en vigencia
I know the rule was effective for last year's taxes, but we need to check to see if it still is.Sé que la regla entró en vigencia para los impuestos del año pasado, pero tenemos que comprobar si sigue siendo así.
3. (actual)
a. efectivo
Mr. Franco is the effective leader here, despite the dispute about his legitimacy.El señor Franco es el líder efectivo aquí, a pesar de la disputa sobre su legitimidad.
b. real
Even though that's not what the law calls for, it is the effective procedure.Aunque no sea lo que marca la ley, sí es el procedimiento real.
4. (striking)
a. buen efecto
A menu on a blackboard written in white chalk can look very effective.Un menú escrito con tiza blanca en un pizarrón negro puede causar muy buen efecto.
effectives
A plural noun indicates that there is more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
5. (military)
a. los efectivos (M)
(m) means that a noun is masculine. Spanish nouns have a gender, which is either feminine (like la mujer or la luna) or masculine (like el hombre or el sol).
We have 1,200 effectives standing by to provide assistance.Tenemos a 1,200 efectivos listos para ofrecer apoyo.
helpful(
hehlp
-
fuhl
)An adjective is a word that describes a noun (e.g., the big dog).
2. (useful)
b. eficaz
Aloe is very helpful if you have a sunburn.El aloe es muy eficaz si tienes quemaduras del sol.
c. práctico
I want to thank you for the helpful suggestions you gave me.Quiero agradecerte las sugerencias prácticas que me diste.
d. positivo
If you don't have any helpful suggestions, please keep your mouth shut.Si no tienes ninguna sugerencia positiva, por favor mantén la boca cerrada.