With Immediate Effect: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
July 9, 2023

The term "with immediate effect" signifies that something is to happen or be implemented instantly or without delay. It's a phrase frequently used in official or legal contexts, particularly to convey the urgency or seriousness of a new rule, decision, or circumstance.

In short:

"With immediate effect" means that something is to happen or be implemented right away.

What Does "With Immediate Effect" Mean?

"With immediate effect" conveys the need for swift action or change. It's often used in the context of rules, decisions, or changes that must be implemented or responded to without delay.

Key aspects of the idiom's meaning:

  • It means happening or being implemented right now or without delay.
  • It refers to a change, decision, or rule that is effective instantly.
  • You can use this phrase when you want to emphasize the urgency of an action or decision.
  • For example, "The new policy will be implemented with immediate effect."

Where Does "With Immediate Effect" Come From?

The origin of the phrase "with immediate effect" is not clear. However, it has been used in official, legal, and corporate contexts to indicate that a decision, law, policy, or rule is to be implemented or followed without delay.

Historical Examples

"The constitution of the Free City of Danzig is cancelled with immediate effect."

- Nazi Conspiracy and Aggression..., 1946

"The following changes amongst Rangers are ordered with immediate effect..."

- The Indian Forester, 1901

10 Examples of "With Immediate Effect" in Sentences

To better comprehend the phrase's usage, let's examine its use in a variety of contexts:

  • The governor ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses with immediate effect.
  • Please bear with us as we implement some changes with immediate effect.
  • The principal decided to suspend the school's uniform policy with immediate effect.
  • The new policy will be enforced with immediate effect, starting at the bottom of the hour.
  • The government declared a state of emergency with immediate effect.
  • As per my last email, you are required to submit your report with immediate effect.
  • Attached herewith is the revised document, which should be used with immediate effect.
  • The law prohibiting smoking in public places was implemented with immediate effect.
  • With immediate effect, we're updating our strategy to better align with the company's goals.
  • My resignation will come into effect with immediate effect.

Examples of "With Immediate Effect" in Pop Culture

In the news, books, and other forms of media, the phrase "with immediate effect" often pops up, particularly in formal or legal contexts:

  • "The board clearly had the ability to terminate both franchises with immediate effect in accordance with Clause 11.3," is a quote from the book Not Out! The Incredible Story of The Indian Premier League.
  • "Bob calls to request Tommy Peanuts be removed from the book's acknowledgment section with immediate effect after Tommy comments twice within a minute that Bob's hair ' looks like women's hair," is a quote from Bob Servant's comedy book Delete This at Your Peril.

Other/Different Ways to Say "With Immediate Effect"

There are several synonyms and phrases you can use as alternatives to "with immediate effect," depending on the context:

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "With Immediate Effect":

  • What is the meaning of "with immediate effect"?

The phrase "With Immediate Effect" means that something is to be implemented or take place immediately or without any delay.

  • What is the origin of the phrase "with immediate effect"?

While the precise origin is unclear, the phrase is commonly used in official, legal, and corporate contexts to convey immediate implementation or action.

  • Can "with immediate effect" have negative connotations?

Depending on the context, "with immediate effect" can have negative connotations, especially if it pertains to a sudden and potentially disruptive change, like the termination of employment or abrupt policy changes.

  • Can I use "with immediate effect" in formal writing?

Yes, "with immediate effect" is predominantly used in formal writing or communication, particularly in legal, corporate, and official contexts.

  • How can I replace "with immediate effect" in a sentence?

You can replace "with immediate effect" with phrases like "immediately," "without delay," "right away," "forthwith," or "effective immediately," depending on the context.

  • Is "with immediate effect" an American idiom?

"With immediate effect" is not strictly an American idiom. It is widely used in British English as well, especially in official and legal documents.

  • Do people use it in everyday conversation?

While "with immediate effect" can be used in everyday conversation, it's more commonly found in formal or official communication.

  • Does "with immediate effect" imply a temporary state?

No, "with immediate effect" describes the immediacy of an action or decision's implementation, but doesn't comment on its duration.

  • Can I use it to describe people?

While not commonly used to describe people, the phrase can be applied to actions or decisions involving individuals. For example, "He was dismissed with immediate effect."

  • Can I use it in a literal sense?

Yes, "with immediate effect" is typically used in a literal sense to denote an immediate action or implementation.

Final Thoughts About "With Immediate Effect"

"With immediate effect" is useful for conveying immediate implementation or action, making it a vital tool in official, legal, and corporate communication.

  • The idiom is used to imply urgency and immediacy.
  • While it's primarily used in formal contexts, it's easily understood in casual conversation.
  • Whether positive or negative, "with immediate effect" clearly communicates the promptness of a decision or action.

So, the next time you need to express urgency or the immediate applicability of something, consider using the phrase "with immediate effect."

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