Affect vs Effect: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
Affect is typically used as a verb meaning 'to influence,' while effect is used as a noun meaning 'impact' or 'result.
Memory Tip: affect = action, effect = end result
affect stress on second syllable, effect stress on first
affect /əˈfɛkt/
verbTo affect something means to change it or make it different.
Example:
If you don't wear a coat, the cold might affect your health.
Common patterns:
affect someone’s feelings
affect the environment
effect /ɪˈfɛkt/
nounA change that happens because of something else.
Example:
The new law will have a positive effect on the environment if everyone follows it.
Common patterns:
cause and effect
positive effect
Common Mistakes
The new law will effect the economy significantly.
The new law will affect the economy significantly.
Affect is correct here because it is used as a verb to describe the action of influencing the economy.
The affect of the new policy was immediately noticeable.
The effect of the new policy was immediately noticeable.
Effect is correct here because it is used as a noun to describe the result of the new policy.
Quick Practice
0/2 correct1. If you don't wear a coat, the cold might ____ your health.
2. The new law will have a positive ____ on the environment if everyone follows it.
Other Confusing Words
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