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efficacy

Efficacy (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/ˈɛfɪkəsi/

What does efficacy mean?

The ability or capacity of something, typically a method, treatment, or intervention, to produce the desired or intended results or effects.
"The efficacy of the new drug was tested in clinical trials."

Detailed Meaning of Efficacy

It signifies the degree to which a particular action, process, or solution is successful in achieving its intended purpose or goal. Efficacy is often used in discussions related to medicine, therapies, policies, or strategies to assess how well they work in practice. It reflects the effectiveness and efficiency of a given approach in producing positive outcomes. In a broader sense, efficacy can also be applied to personal actions and behaviors, reflecting their ability to lead to desired or meaningful results. "Efficacy" emphasizes the idea of effectiveness and the capacity of a particular action or approach to bring about the desired effects or changes.

Example Sentences for Efficacy

1. The efficacy of the new drug was proven in clinical trials.
2. The vaccine demonstrated high efficacy against the targeted virus.
3. The study revealed the efficacy of exercise in reducing stress levels.
4. The company's marketing campaign aimed to highlight the efficacy of their product.
5. The teacher implemented new teaching strategies to improve the efficacy of student learning.
6. The research team conducted experiments to measure the efficacy of the cleaning product.

Origin and Etymology of Efficacy

The noun 'efficacy' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'efficacia,' which is formed from 'efficax,' meaning 'effective' or 'powerful,' and the suffix '-ia,' indicating a quality or state. In its original Latin sense, 'efficacy' conveyed the idea of being effective or possessing the power to produce desired results. Over time, it evolved to describe the ability or capacity of something, typically a method, treatment, or intervention, to produce the desired or intended results or effects. This etymology underscores the concept of effectiveness and power in achieving specific outcomes, which remains central to the meaning of 'efficacy' in various contexts today.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun efficacy:

uselessness

ineffectiveness

effectiveness

futility

Try Again!

Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Efficacy

1. The doctor prescribed a medication known for its efficacy in treating the condition.
2. The efficacy of the security system was questioned after a breach occurred.
3. The therapy showed promising efficacy in reducing symptoms of depression.
4. The manufacturer conducted rigorous tests to ensure the efficacy of their product.
5. The committee evaluated the efficacy of the proposed policy changes.
6. The project manager focused on improving the efficacy of the team's workflow.
7. The herbal remedy claimed to have high efficacy in boosting immune function.
8. The study compared the efficacy of different treatment options for chronic pain.
9. The government implemented measures to monitor the efficacy of environmental regulations.
10. The efficacy of the new drug in treating the disease was remarkable.
11. She doubted the efficacy of the home remedy for her cold.
12. The vaccine's efficacy against the virus was proven in clinical trials.
13. The psychologist studied the efficacy of various therapeutic techniques.
14. The efficacy of the security system was evident when it thwarted a break-in.
15. They assessed the product's efficacy through rigorous testing.
16. The team worked to improve the efficacy of their advertising campaign.
17. The doctor explained the efficacy of the treatment options.
18. The study aimed to determine the efficacy of the educational program.
19. The jury questioned the efficacy of the eyewitness testimony.
20. The company invested in research to enhance the efficacy of its products.
21. The teacher measured the efficacy of different teaching methods.
22. The government evaluated the efficacy of its public health initiatives.
23. The researchers were pleased with the efficacy of their findings.
24. We need to assess the efficacy of our environmental policies.