efficax
[ˈɛf.fɪ.kaːks]
The Latin word for efficient is efficax.
The adjective efficax is used to describe something that is making good use of resources.
Meaning: making good use of resources (adj)
How does it change in a sentence?
The form changes based on its role in a sentence. Use efficaces when describing multiple people or things. If the word is the direct object of a verb, use the accusative form efficacem.
Did you know?
- In Roman legal and philosophical texts, efficax was often used to describe the power of a law or a spell to produce a real effect in the physical world.
- The Latin root faciō, found within efficax, is the ancestor of dozens of English words including 'factory', 'facility' and 'fashion'.
- The word efficax is built from the suffix -āx, which describes a person's tendency or inclination toward a behavior. In Latin, this suffix creates a whole family of adjectives describing people who are 'prone to' certain actions.
Examples in context
- Vir iste efficientiam incredibilem ostendit.That man demonstrates incredible efficiency.
- Hic modus est efficax.This method is efficient.
- Labor efficax est.The work is efficient.
- Machina efficax est.The machine is efficient.
Example conversation
Lucius and Claudia are discussing a new work plan.
- LuciusClaudia, visne hanc rationem probare?Claudia, do you want to try this method?
- ClaudiaIta, quia videtur efficax esse.Yes, because it seems to be efficient.
- LuciusMultum temporis servabimus.We will save a lot of time.
- ClaudiaIta, hoc est optimum.Yes, this is the best.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry efficax, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
