Efficacious

Definition

Capable of producing the desired result or effect; effective and successful in achieving its intended purpose. Often used in medical, technical, or formal contexts to describe treatments, methods, or strategies that work as intended.

Example Usage

The new vaccine proved highly efficacious in preventing the disease in clinical trials.

Origin

From Latin *efficax* 'powerful,' from *efficere* 'to effect' or 'to accomplish' (ex- 'out' + facere 'to make').

Fun Fact

While 'efficacious' and 'effective' are often used interchangeably, 'efficacious' carries a slightly more formal, technical tone and emphasizes intrinsic capability.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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