QUICK ANSWER
"Eficaz" is an adjective which is often translated as "effective", and "efectivo" is an adjective which is also often translated as "effective". Learn more about the difference between "eficaz" and "efectivo" below.
eficaz(
eh
-
fee
-
kahs
)
An adjective is a word that describes a noun (e.g., the big dog).
adjective
a. effective
Los investigadores esperan descubrir un tratamiento más eficaz para la diabetes.Researchers hope to discover a more effective treatment for diabetes.
a. efficient
Estamos desarrollando un proceso de producción de electricidad más eficaz.We are developing a more efficient process of producing electricity.
Copyright © 2025 Dictionary Media Group Inc.
efectivo, el efectivo(
eh
-
fehk
-
tee
-
boh
)
An adjective is a word that describes a noun (e.g., the big dog).
adjective
a. effective
La vacuna tarda unos días en ser efectiva.The vaccine takes a few days to become effective.
a. real
El poder efectivo está en manos del pueblo.The real power is in the hands of the people.
b. actual
La posibilidad efectiva de que sobreviva este pajarito es muy escasa.The actual chance that this baby bird will survive is very slim.
c. true
No se ha podido determinar el valor efectivo de las pérdidas.It has not been possible to determine the true value of the losses.
A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
masculine noun
a. cash
Pagué con tarjeta porque no llevaba efectivo.I paid by card because I didn't have any cash on me.
los efectivos
A plural noun indicates that there is more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
plural noun
a. forces
El país aumentó el número de efectivos militares en la zona.The country increased the number of military forces in the area.
Copyright © 2025 Dictionary Media Group Inc.