Efficient or effective?

Efficient and effective are adjectives.

We use efficient to describe something or someone that works in a quick and organised way:

• The new online banking system offers a convenient and efficient way to check your account.
• [extract from a reference for someone applying for a job]
• I have always known James to be highly competent and efficient in all aspects of his job.

We use effective to describe something that gives you the results you want:

• Taking this tablet is a very effective cure for travel sickness.
• In this light, the camera is more effective if you use the flash.