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.
Often, there is a pell-mell brawl before a new regulation takes effect. — Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 11 Aug. 2026 New Jersey, New York, Connecticut and Maryland also have laws on the issue, though some won’t take effect until next year. — Los Angeles Times, 10 Aug. 2026 Israel has continued carrying out strikes in Gaza since the ceasefire took effect last October, while the future disarmament of Hamas and the withdrawal of Israeli forces remain central issues in negotiations over the territory. — Eric MacK, FOXNews.com, 9 Aug. 2026 The amendment says the new president would stay in office until a new constitution takes effect, or for a maximum of five years. — Reuters, NBC news, 8 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 13 Aug. 2026.

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