eficaces

Eficaces is the plural form of the Spanish adjective eficaz, meaning capable of producing the intended result. It is used to describe actions, methods, devices, policies, or people that achieve the goals they aim for. In general, the term conveys effectiveness and practical success, rather than speed or efficiency alone.

Grammatical notes: Eficaz is in singular form for both masculine and feminine nouns, and the plural form is eficaces. The adjective matches the noun in number: medidas eficaces, soluciones eficaces, estrategias eficaces. It is distinct from eficiente, which tends to emphasize efficiency or cost-effectiveness, and from efectivo, which can mean real or actual as well as effective in a more concrete sense.

Etymology: Eficaz originates from Latin efficax, efficac- meaning “capable of producing.” The Spanish form evolved through the Romance language family, yielding the modern adjective and its plural eficaces. The term has long been used in scientific, juridical, and communicative contexts to denote proven or demonstrable results.

Usage and nuance: In contemporary Spanish, eficaz/eficaces commonly describe interventions, tests, programs, or practices that yield the desired outcome. While closely related to synonyms such as efectivo, práctico, or exitoso, each carries specific nuance: effective in result (eficaz), practical or usable (práctico), successful or triumphant (exitoso). Examples include: “un tratamiento eficaz,” “medidas eficaces para reducir emisiones.”

See also: eficacia, eficiencia, efectivo.