take effect

phrase

Synonyms of take effectnext
1
: to become operative
The new regulations will take effect next year.
2
: to begin producing an expected or intended effect or result
waiting for the drug to take effect

Examples of take effect in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What happens to you, your family, or your community if this provision takes effect? — Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026 Before the state's law could take effect in January, a federal judge blocked enforcement. — Maureen Groppe, USA Today, 6 July 2026 That would still exceed enrollment in 2021, when enhanced subsidies took effect, by about 1 million people. — Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 3 July 2026 In 2019, a federal law banning cockfighting took effect in Puerto Rico. — Liana Handler, Los Angeles Times, 5 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for take effect

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of take effect was in the 14th century

Rhymes for take effect

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Browse Nearby Words

take each day as it comes
take effect
take everything into consideration
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Take effect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20effect. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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