Literary notes about efficacious (AI summary)
Literary usage of "efficacious" spans a broad spectrum, from the mystical to the mundane. Writers deploy the term to convey that a particular act, remedy, or practice reliably produces its intended result. It appears in contexts where recitations or rituals are credited with a sacred effectiveness [1][2], and in descriptions of mantras or religious grace that yield tangible benefits [3][4]. The word is also employed in more grounded scenarios, such as the assertion that a physical remedy or a governmental policy works as promised [5][6], and even in characterizing objects imbued with protective or magical qualities [7][8]. This versatility helps show that whether describing spiritual acts or everyday measures, "efficacious" underscores an inherent, demonstrable power to effect change [9][10].
- The peculiarly sacred character of the text rendered the accent very important for correct and efficacious recitation.
— from A History of Sanskrit Literature by Arthur Anthony Macdonell - The horse-sacrifice, moreover, was regarded as the most important and efficacious of animal sacrifices.
— from A History of Sanskrit Literature by Arthur Anthony Macdonell - But how shall I know that the mantra which I have learned is equally efficacious?
— from Folk-Tales of Bengal by Lal Behari Day - You follow the world, my young friend, and I tremble lest grace prove not efficacious.”
— from The three musketeers by Alexandre Dumas and Auguste Maquet - In addition to this, it would be an efficacious source of stability in the administration.
— from The Federalist Papers by Alexander Hamilton and John Jay and James Madison - The falling of the leaf was an annual event, and the leaf itself was efficacious in curing diseases.
— from Omens and Superstitions of Southern India by Edgar Thurston - Its tail is very efficacious against evil spirits and witches, according to native belief.
— from Filipino Popular Tales - To be efficacious the movement must be secret.
— from Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll - That was sure, efficacious, and free from danger.
— from Les Misérables by Victor Hugo - It is in consequence of holiness and virtue alone that men attain to regions of blessedness, and fasts and vows become efficacious.
— from The Mahabharata of Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa, Volume 1
