affect vs. effect

Commonly confused · Daily English
Daily EnglishB1

“Affect” is almost always the verb; “effect” is almost always the noun.

1What it means

Use affect as a verb — it means “to change or influence something”. Use effect as a noun — it means “the result of a change”.

So one thing affects another, and that produces an effect. If you can put “the” or “an” in front of the word, you almost certainly want effect.

💡 A = Action (affect = verb). E = End result (effect = noun).

2Examples

  • The weather affects my mood.
  • The weather has a strong effect on my mood.
  • How will the new rule affect small businesses?
  • The new rule had no effect at all.

3Quick check Tap the best answer.

1. Choose the correct word: “The medicine did not ___ him at all.”

2. Choose the correct word: “Rising prices are one ___ of the shortage.”

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