Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
to-the-effect
idiomatic expression
/tə ði ɪˈfɛkt/

Definition
A phrase used to indicate the gist or essence of something that has been expressed or communicated.

Examples
- She replied to the email to the effect that she would not be attending the meeting.
- The manager spoke to the effect that changes would be made in the upcoming quarter.
- He mentioned to the effect that the project deadline might be extended.

Meaning
The phrase ‘to-the-effect’ is often used to summarize or restate a message, suggesting that something is true or as previously mentioned.

Synonyms
- in essence
- essentially
- to summarize