The official IELTS by IDP app is here! Download it today.

Close

Summary:

Affect is usually a verb meaning to influence, while effect is a noun that refers to a result. This guide breaks down the difference with easy tips and examples.

Affect vs Effect: What’s the Difference?

When do you use effect or affect (or in past tense, affected or effected)? Affect v effect easily get confused. Affect is usually a verb, and it means to impact or change. Effect, on the other hand, is usually a noun that you would use to indicate the result of a change. Because “affect” and “effect” are homophones (words that sound alike), they are often confused. We’ll share some easy tips on telling them apart.

Help me with the IELTS Registration

Learn what is the difference between affect vs. effect?

Affect

Is a verb: A word or phrase that describes an action, condition, or experience.

Effect

Is a noun: A word that refers to a person, place, thing, event, substance, or quality.

What are the definitions of affect vs. effect?

What is the meaning of affect?

Make a difference to; bring about change; touch the feelings of; move emotionally.

What is the meaning of effect?

A change which is a result or a consequence of an action or other cause.

What are the synonyms of Affect and effect?

Synonyms of affect

The synonyms for ‘affect’ include: Influence, have an effect on, sway, modify, alter, touch, stir.

Synonyms of effect

The synonyms for ‘effect include: Result, consequence, outcome, reaction, ramifications.

How to use affect or effect in a sentence?

Examples of using ‘affect’ in a sentence

  • How do cigarettes affect my brain?

  • Age-related changes in organs, tissues and other parts of your body can affect how you respond or react to medicines.

  • Throughout the performance, a number of audience members were visibly affected, brought to tears by the reality of the tale.

Examples of using ‘effect’ in a sentence

  • Global warming is projected to have a number of effects on the ocean.

  • He resigned with immediate effect.

  • A good diet had a positive effect on their health.

  • What are the effects of smoking on the lungs?

Reference: Cambridge Dictionary

Book my test

Read more insightful articles: