having some effect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "having some effect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the influence or impact that something has on a situation or outcome. Example: "The new policy is having some effect on employee productivity, as many have reported feeling more motivated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

ReprintsThis may be having some effect.

The Economist

The soft economy is having some effect.

The New York Times

And this appears to be having some effect.

The Guardian

The Treasury plan seems to be having some effect.

The New York Times

It may be that the pressure is having some effect.

The Guardian

The efforts seem to be having some effect.

The New York Times

The ads seem to be having some effect.

The New York Times

But the criticism may be having some effect.

The New York Times

This new, harsher climate may be having some effect.

The Economist

There was some evidence today that Mr. Gore's approach was having some effect.

The New York Times

But it is also clear that the criticism is having some effect.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "having some effect", consider quantifying the effect if possible to strengthen your statement. For example, instead of saying "The changes are having some effect", try "The changes are having a noticeable effect on productivity, with a 10% increase reported this quarter."

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the impact of something by using "having some effect" when the actual effect is minimal or unproven. If the effect is negligible, consider using phrases like "showing limited effect" or "having a subtle impact" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "having some effect" functions as a verbal phrase indicating that an action or intervention is beginning to produce results or exert influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used. It typically modifies a noun or pronoun, describing the impact or influence being generated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "having some effect" is a versatile and commonly used expression that indicates a noticeable, though not necessarily substantial, impact or influence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase serves to convey that something is making a difference, often providing updates on ongoing situations. When writing, consider quantifying the effect for greater impact and avoid overstating the results. Alternatives like "making a difference" or "showing an impact" can be used to vary your language, depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

showing an impact

Highlights the visible influence or effect.

making a difference

Emphasizes a positive change or impact being made.

registering influence

Conveys the meaning that something is being noticed to have impact

producing results

Focuses on the tangible outcomes or achievements.

beginning to work

Focuses on the initial stages of effectiveness.

exerting influence

Suggests a more active or forceful impact.

taking hold

Suggests that something is beginning to have a noticeable effect.

creating an impression

Focuses on the perceived effect or impact.

leaving its mark

Indicates a lasting or permanent effect.

bearing fruit

Implies that efforts are starting to yield positive results.

FAQs

How can I use "having some effect" in a sentence?

Use "having some effect" to indicate that something is producing a noticeable, though not necessarily dramatic, result. For example, "The new marketing campaign is "having some effect" on sales figures."

What are some alternatives to "having some effect"?

You can use alternatives like "making a difference", "showing an impact", or "producing results" depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "having some effect" or "having a significant effect"?

The choice depends on the magnitude of the impact. "Having some effect" suggests a moderate or noticeable influence, while "having a significant effect" implies a larger, more substantial impact. Use the phrase that accurately reflects the situation.

What's the difference between "having some effect" and "being effective"?

"Having some effect" indicates that something is starting to produce results or exert influence, whereas "being effective" implies that something is already successful in achieving its intended outcome. "The medication is "having some effect", but it's not yet fully "being effective" in eliminating the symptoms."