Affect or is it Effect?

Janice Seagraves

These two words are often confused, and to add to the confusion both words can be used as a noun or verb. Also don’t rely too heavily on Microsoft word’s spellchecker when you want know when to use Affect or Effect. Sometimes it’s wrong.

Affect as a noun means to influence, simulate or imitate. Affect as a verb means to influence someone’s thinking, feelings or attitude.

Affect: to influence.

Example as a verb, as it relates to emotion: The homeless woman’s sad story had affected the small group and wallets were brought out.

The homeless woman Affected an emotional response.

Example as a noun, to imitate: She affected a Southern accent.

She Affected an imitation of a Southern accent.

Effect means the profound consequence or result of some action taken.

Effect: is to cause change.

Example as a noun, to change: The effect of second hand smoke can cause lung cancer.

Smoke Effected a physical change.

Example as a verb, to change: The boss’s speech “to work harder” had the desire effect on his employees.

The Effected physical change here: the employees are working harder.

Effect can also mean someone’s property.

Example: The effects of the victim were given to the closest relative.

Still confused?

Maybe this will help?

Use Affect when there is a change in emotions.

Use Effect when a physical change has occurred.

To oversimplify:

Psychological—Affect

Physical—Effect