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Affect Effect
Uses:Usually verb (to affect something means to cause an impact on something). As a noun, the word "affect" relates to the display of emotion.Usually noun (effect means the result or outcome of a cause). As a verb, "to effect" means "to bring about". The plural "effects" means "belongings"
Pronunciation:Noun: ˈæfɛkt and Verb: ə'fɛktɪˈfɛkt

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[edit] Affect vs Effect - Differences in Usage

In general, affect is a verb and effect is a noun. When X "affects" Y, it is said that X produces an "effect" on Y. In passive form, Y is "affected" by X.

[edit] Examples of Affect vs Effect

  • Carbon di-oxide emissions affect the environment.
  • The effect of global warming is that glaciers will melt and sea levels will rise.
  • The 2008 Presidential elections in the United States will likely be affected by the war in Iraq.
  • Reducing the marketing budget will affect sales growth.
  • Abuse during childhood may lead to violence in adulthood. This is just cause and effect.

As a rule of thumb, it is advisable to use affect as a verb (transitive, intransitive, active, passive) and effect when used as a noun.

[edit] Special Cases of Affect and Effect

Like many other words in the English language, affect and effect have other meanings.

[edit] Affect as a noun

When used as a noun, "affect" means Feelings and desires as factors in thought or conduct or, more simply, external display of one's emotion or mood. The pronunciation of the word "affect" is slightly different when used as a noun. It is pronounced ˈæfɛkt. For example, John seemed completely devoid of affect.

[edit] Effect as a verb

When used as a verb, "effect" means to execute, produce, or accomplish something. It is pronounced the same way (ɪˈfɛkt) whether used as a verb or a noun. For example, The best way to effect change in society is to work at the grassroots level.

[edit] Effects as a plural noun

The word "effects" can also be used to mean "a person's belongings". For example, He left without any of his personal effects.

[edit] Related Articles

[edit] References

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Comments: Affect vs Effect  [Add Comments]
Comments on Affect vs. Effect
The new law will affect you. The effect of the new law is that people will smoke less.
- by 24.17.98.112 on 2009-03-18 18:46:06
so if I say; the new law may effect you - is that correct (or should it be affect)?
- by 24.45.192.173 on 2009-02-24 03:21:51
As a kid, I learned the "RAVEN" mnemonic for these two words: Remember: Affect = Verb Effect = Noun Hope this helps others! Kari
- by 209.75.40.126 on 2009-01-20 00:11:00