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.
FlavorCloud only updates tariff rates after new rules officially take effect rather than when proposals are announced, but Sharad expects governments worldwide to continue tightening customs enforcement. — Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 3 Aug. 2026 But even before the most drastic changes take effect, more than 4 million people are estimated to have already lost the critical food aid between last July and April — many of whom are children. — Juliana Kim, NPR, 3 Aug. 2026 The proposal still must move through Congress and receive the president's signature before taking effect. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 2 Aug. 2026 The law is slated to take effect January 25, 2027, with the rules that will govern compliance now in place. — Cayla Bamberger, New York Daily News, 1 Aug. 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 5 Aug. 2026.

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