an effective instrument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an effective instrument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a tool, method, or approach that successfully achieves a desired outcome or purpose. Example: "The new software has proven to be an effective instrument for improving productivity in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

An elimination diet may be an effective instrument to reduce physical complaints in children with ADHD, but more research is needed to determine the effects of food on (functional) somatic symptoms in children with and without ADHD.

European Journal of Pediatrics

It was an effective instrument of the regime's divide and rule strategy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A union of 25 member states seems incapable of being an effective instrument for coordinated policy.

The Guardian

Harlan became an effective instrument for Goebbels's beliefs in the power of cinema.

The New York Times

Open-market operations are an effective instrument of monetary regulation only in countries with well-developed securities markets.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Wood went on ABC's "Issues and Answers," where he was asked whether he thought that he had destroyed the C.I.A. as an effective instrument in the Cold War.

The New Yorker

If the United Nations respects the sovereign rights of the American people and serves them as an effective instrument, it will earn and deserve their respect and support.

The New York Times

The United States and Great Britain have labored hard to help make the United Nations what it is supposed to be: an effective instrument of our collective security.

The New York Times

I have yet to be presented with evidence for the proposition that hate-speech laws are an effective instrument to prevent violence.

The New Yorker

The broad nave thus created was an effective instrument for dramatizing the Mass, and as such was widely copied throughout Europe in the service of the Counter-Reformation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Under Leo's leadership the ancient body of cardinals was transformed into an effective instrument for administration of the church and promotion of reform.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something as "an effective instrument", specify the context in which it is effective. For example, "an effective instrument for data analysis".

Common error

Avoid using "an effective instrument" as a generic compliment. Instead, provide concrete examples or evidence of its effectiveness to avoid sounding vague or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an effective instrument" functions as a noun phrase, where "effective" is an adjective modifying the noun "instrument". It serves to describe something that is capable of producing a desired result. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an effective instrument" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe something that successfully achieves a desired outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It finds frequent application in scientific, news and media, and encyclopedia contexts. While versatile, it's important to provide context regarding the instrument's effectiveness and avoid overgeneralization in its usage. Alternatives like "a useful tool" or "a powerful means" can be considered for variety. Always ensure to specify what exactly the instrument is effective for to increase clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a useful tool

Replaces "effective instrument" with a more general term for usefulness.

a powerful means

Emphasizes the strength and capability of the instrument.

a valuable asset

Highlights the importance and worth of the instrument.

a key mechanism

Focuses on the instrumental nature of the tool within a process.

a practical solution

Emphasizes the problem-solving capability of the instrument.

an efficient method

Replaces "instrument" with a broader term for a procedure or way of doing something, emphasizing efficiency.

a successful strategy

Highlights the strategic value and positive outcome.

a potent force

Emphasizes the impactful and influential nature of the instrument.

a reliable resource

Focuses on the dependability and trustworthiness of the instrument.

a helpful aid

Replaces "instrument" with a simpler term indicating assistance.

FAQs

How can I use "an effective instrument" in a sentence?

Use "an effective instrument" to describe something that successfully achieves a desired outcome. For example, "The new policy is "an effective instrument" for reducing pollution".

What can I say instead of "an effective instrument"?

You can use alternatives like "a useful tool", "a powerful means", or "a valuable asset" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "an effective instrument" or "a effective instrument"?

"An effective instrument" is correct. The indefinite article "an" is used before words that begin with a vowel sound.

Is "effective instrument" a formal or informal expression?

"Effective instrument" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is more common in formal writing and speech.