English Reference

affect vs effect

Affect is the action of influencing something, while effect is the result that follows.

affect

the verb for causing a change

The new tax laws will affect how much small businesses can spend.

effect

the noun for the final result

The medication had a positive effect on her recovery time.

Watch out
  • The loud music did not effect his ability to concentrate.

    The loud music did not affect his ability to concentrate.

  • The cold weather had a negative affect on the crops.

    The cold weather had a negative effect on the crops.

Remember Affect = Action. Effect = End result.

Fill the gap with one of the two options.

  1. 1.

    Lack of sleep began to his performance during the morning meetings.

  2. 2.

    We are still studying the long-term of the policy change.

More like this in Everyday pairs.