are in effect

USAGE SUMMARY

"are in effect" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation that is currently in effect or active. Example: The new regulations are in effect as of today.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are, in effect, untouchable.

The Economist

They are, in effect, cash.

The Economist

Parking meters are in effect.

The New York Times

"We are, in effect, taking your property".

The New York Times

Five universities are, in effect, bankrupt.

The Economist

PARKING Holiday rules are in effect.

The New York Times

PARKING Sunday rules are in effect.

The New York Times

Yet negotiations are, in effect, suspended.

The Economist

Those miles really are, in effect, money.

The New York Times - Magazine

All other rules are in effect.

The New York Times

Sunday rules are in effect.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are in effect" to clearly state that a rule, law, or system is currently active and being applied. For clarity, specify the duration or conditions under which something is "in effect."

Common error

Avoid assuming that because something is "in effect" in one context, it automatically applies universally. Always clarify the specific scope and limitations when stating that rules or regulations "are in effect."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are in effect" functions as a predicative expression, indicating the current validity or operational status of a rule, law, or system. Ludwig provides many examples showing its use in news, legal, and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are in effect" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies the current validity or operational status of a rule, law, or system. Ludwig AI confirms this, highlighting its prevalence across diverse contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific literature. To enhance clarity, specify the conditions or duration to which something is "in effect", and avoid the assumption of universal application. Alternatives like "are operative" or "are valid" offer nuanced substitutions depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are in force

Uses "in force" instead of "in effect", stressing the enforcement or active implementation.

are operative

Replaces "in effect" with "operative", emphasizing the active or functioning state.

are in operation

Rephrases to "are in operation", stressing the state of being actively used or functioning.

are implemented

Replaces "in effect" with "implemented", focusing on the action of putting something into practice.

are operational

Uses "operational" instead of "in effect", emphasizing the readiness for use.

are valid

Substitutes "in effect" with "valid", highlighting the legitimacy or legal standing.

are applicable

Substitutes "in effect" with "applicable", emphasizing the relevance or suitability.

are active

Substitutes "in effect" with "active", highlighting the current working state.

are in play

Replaces "in effect" with "in play", suggesting current engagement or influence.

are running

Replaces "in effect" with "running", suggesting continuous operation.

FAQs

How can I use "are in effect" in a sentence?

Use "are in effect" to indicate that a rule, law, or agreement is currently active and being implemented. For example, "The new traffic regulations "are in effect" as of January 1st."

What phrases are similar to "are in effect"?

Alternatives include "are operative", "are valid", or "are in force". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "are in effect"?

It's appropriate when you want to clearly state that a particular rule, law, or system is currently active, valid, and being applied. Use it in formal writing or when precision is important.

What's the difference between "are in effect" and "will be in effect"?

"Are in effect" indicates a present condition, meaning something is currently active. "Will be in effect" indicates a future condition, meaning something is scheduled to become active at a later time.