efectivo
Lemma Details
Translation: effective; efficient; cash; actual; real
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: Derived from Latin 'effectivus', from 'effectus' (accomplishment, effect), past participle of 'efficere' (to accomplish, bring about). It shares the same Latin root as the English words 'effect', 'effective', and 'efficacy'. The meaning related to money (cash) developed from the idea of something that produces immediate, tangible results.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think 'effect-ivo' - something that produces an effect is effective.
- For the cash meaning, imagine that cash has an immediate effect when you pay with it.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, 'efectivo' is commonly used in financial contexts to refer specifically to cash payments, as opposed to card or digital payments. The phrase 'pago en efectivo' (cash payment) is very common in retail and service industries.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Efectivo' means effective or cash, while 'afectivo' relates to emotions or affection.
This word:
Este medicamento es muy efectivo contra el dolor.
This medication is very effective against pain.
Confused word:
Tiene problemas afectivos desde su infancia.
He has had emotional problems since childhood.
Notes: The pronunciation is very similar, differing only in the first vowel sound.
Mnemonic: 'Afectivo' starts with 'A' for 'Affection'; 'Efectivo' starts with 'E' for 'Effective'.
Explanation: 'Efectivo' is an adjective meaning effective or a noun meaning cash, while 'efecto' is a noun meaning effect or result.
Notes: Both words share the same Latin root related to accomplishment and results.
Mnemonic: 'Efecto' is the result, 'efectivo' is what produces results (or the cash that produces immediate results in transactions).