highly effective — works very well
collocationB2IELTS 5+neutralcommon
Very successful at achieving the desired result; something that really works well.
Say it like a native
Textbook This method is exceedingly efficacious.
Native This method is highly effective.
'Highly effective' is the natural intensifier; 'exceedingly efficacious' is pompous.
Pattern: highly effective + noun / at + -ing
In use
- This new medicine is highly effective at reducing pain.daily life
- In my opinion, online courses can be highly effective for students who need a flexible schedule.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ It's a high effective method.
✓ It's a highly effective method.
Use the adverb 'highly' (not 'high') before an adjective.
Common collocations
highly effective— at, extremely, proven, method
Don't confuse it
'Very effective' is common, but 'highly effective' sounds stronger and is often used in formal or academic contexts.