cumulative effect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'cumulative effect' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the increasing effect or result of a series of events or actions over time. For example, "The cumulative effect of taking regular exercise has resulted in a significant improvement in my overall health."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a cumulative effect".

The New York Times

The cumulative effect is astonishing.

Independent

The cumulative effect is devastating.

The New Yorker

The cumulative effect is overwhelming.

The Guardian - Arts

The cumulative effect is punishingly fey.

The New Yorker

But the cumulative effect was exhausting.

The New York Times

The cumulative effect has been devastating.

The Guardian

We're concerned about the cumulative effect".

The New York Times

The cumulative effect might well stun.

The New Yorker

The cumulative effect is disorienting yet intoxicating.

The New Yorker

The cumulative effect is a bit unsettling.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the "cumulative effect" of several factors, ensure you specify each contributing element for clarity. For example, instead of just stating 'The cumulative effect was significant', elaborate by saying 'The cumulative effect of increased marketing spend, improved customer service, and strategic partnerships was significant'.

Common error

Avoid attributing outcomes solely to the "cumulative effect" without acknowledging the importance of each individual element. Recognize and detail each factor's contribution before discussing their combined impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cumulative effect" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the result of a series of actions or events that build upon each other over time. Ludwig shows it is commonly used to describe an overall or combined impact.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cumulative effect" describes the amplified result from repeated actions or events. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable. It is most frequently encountered in news and media, where it highlights the amplified impact of consistent actions. When using "cumulative effect", ensure clarity by specifying the contributing elements. Alternatives include "combined impact" and "aggregate effect", each with slightly different nuances. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, writers can effectively leverage "cumulative effect" to enhance their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accumulated impact

Emphasizes the build-up of influence or consequences.

aggregate effect

Highlights the total result from individual elements accumulating.

compounding effect

Highlights an effect that intensifies as it continues or repeats.

resultant influence

Emphasizes the influence which results as a consequence of other effects.

combined impact

Focuses on the result of elements working together rather than building over time.

collective consequence

Refers to the outcome of a group's actions or factors.

overall impact

Stresses the final resulting influence after all factors are considered.

integrated outcome

Focuses on how different parts are merged to produce a final result.

net result

Focuses on the end outcome after all positive and negative influences have been accounted for.

long-term consequence

Focuses on the consequences that emerge over a considerable period.

FAQs

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

You can use "cumulative effect" to describe how a series of actions or events, when combined, produce a greater impact than their individual contributions would suggest. For example, "The "cumulative effect" of small daily savings can lead to substantial wealth over time."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "cumulative effect"?

Alternatives include phrases like "combined impact", "aggregate effect", or "accumulated impact". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say 'cumulative effects' instead of "cumulative effect"?

Yes, "cumulative effects" is also correct, especially when referring to multiple distinct effects that accumulate. "Cumulative effect" is typically used when referring to a single, overall resulting impact.

What is the difference between "cumulative effect" and "domino effect"?

The "cumulative effect" describes the gradual build-up of impact from repeated actions or events, whereas the "domino effect" describes a chain reaction where one event triggers a series of subsequent events.