gives effect to

USAGE SUMMARY

"give effect to" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the act of causing something to happen or to give something practical importance. For example, "The new rights granted in the contract gave effect to the changes demanded by the workers."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

In so deciding, Mr. Moreno-Ocampo should not adopt a restrictive approach that emphasizes the absence of a fully effective government, but rather an expansive approach that gives effect to the main purpose of the I.C.C.

The New York Times

The Government insists that its interpretation is the only one that gives effect to all of the statutory language.

Cornell University

By contrast, many scholars believe torture should be entirely out of the question, and positive law gives effect to this view.

Cornell University

An author might also be "'the inventive or master mind' who 'creates, or gives effect to the idea.'" Id. at 1234 (quoting Burrow-Giles, 111 U.S. at 61).

Harvard University

Here, respondents encounter a superfluity problem when they argue that the "addressed and dispatched" clause in §1608(a)(3) gives effect to the Mullane due process standard.

Cornell University

Such a construction of the clause gives effect to it, denies effect to no other words or provisions in the statute, and is in strict harmony with every part.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

When the practice is abandoned, communities effectively enforce new legislation and should give effect to policy strategies.

American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

The effectiveness of the Genocide Convention depends on state parties giving effect to their obligations – translating their commitments into action.

Forbes

It's vital we give effect to the referendum result.

The Guardian - Opinion

They were not of contract not gave effect to contracts.

Cornell University

A bill was introduced giving effect to the plan.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, ensure the subject performing the action and the object being affected are clearly defined within the sentence.

Common error

Avoid using "gives effect to" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "implements" or "starts" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gives effect to" functions as a causative verb phrase, indicating that something causes another thing to be implemented or become operative. Ludwig's examples show it frequently used to describe how laws, policies, or actions bring about specific results.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

35%

News & Media

47%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

9%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gives effect to" is a versatile phrase used to describe the act of implementing or validating something, particularly in formal and legal contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly found in academic papers, news reports, and other professional communications. While it's acceptable to use in various contexts, remember to avoid it in informal settings where simpler alternatives might be more appropriate. By understanding its grammatical function, communicative purpose, and register, you can effectively incorporate "gives effect to" into your writing and speaking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

implements

Focuses on the act of putting something into practice or action.

enforces

Highlights the act of compelling observance of a law or rule.

validates

Emphasizes the act of confirming the accuracy or legitimacy of something.

actualizes

Stresses the process of making something real or concrete.

brings about

Focuses on causing something to occur or exist.

puts into action

Highlights the initiation of a process or plan.

executes

Emphasizes the thorough completion of a task or plan.

realizes

Focuses on achieving or fulfilling something.

legalizes

Specifically relates to making something lawful or permissible.

sanctions

Implies giving official permission or approval.

FAQs

How can I use "gives effect to" in a sentence?

You can use "gives effect to" to indicate that something is making something else happen or become valid. For example, "The new law gives effect to the changes demanded by the citizens."

What phrases are similar to "gives effect to"?

Alternatives include "implements", "enforces", or "validates", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "gives effect to" appropriate for informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "gives effect to" can sound overly formal in casual contexts. Consider using simpler alternatives such as "starts" or "begins".

What is the difference between "gives effect to" and "has an effect on"?

"Gives effect to" implies a direct action that causes something to happen or become valid, whereas "has an effect on" simply indicates an influence or impact. For example, "The ruling gives effect to new policies" versus "The ruling has an effect on existing procedures".