Definition

1. Adverb: With that general meaning or import; used to indicate that a statement or piece of information is a close paraphrase or summary, not a direct quotation.

Usage

The phrase "to that effect" is used to convey that what follows is the general sense or approximate meaning of what was said or written, rather than the exact words. It signals that the speaker is paraphrasing.

Examples

• The manager announced that the project was on hold, or words to that effect.
• I received a message saying I should call back immediately, or something to that effect.
• The report stated that profits were declining, or to that effect.

Advanced Usage

• "or words to that effect": A common collocation used when summarizing spoken language.
  • He told me I was being irresponsible, or words to that effect.
• "or something to that effect": A common, slightly more informal collocation.
  • The email said the meeting was postponed, or something to that effect.

Variants and Related Words

• To this effect (Adverb): With this general meaning. Used to introduce a paraphrase that follows.
  • The directive was issued to this effect: all staff must work remotely.

Synonyms

• In essence
• In substance
• Along those lines
• Effectively (in some contexts)

Related Phrases

• Or similar: Used to indicate an approximation of a thing or idea, rather than a paraphrase of words.
  • We need nails, screws, or similar. (Contrast with: He said we needed fasteners, or words to that effect.)

Adverb

1. with that general meaning
   • she said something to that effect