English Reference
adjective · noun

affected

adj. · n.
US /əˈfɛktɪd/ UK /ɐfˈɛktɪd/ af·fect·ed

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.changed or influenced by something else, often in a negative way.

    adj.influenced, changed, or impacted by an external factor, frequently used in medical or environmental contexts.

    Simple

    The areas affected by the flood are still without electricity.

    In context

    The regions most severely affected by the drought have seen a significant decline in agricultural output over the last three fiscal quarters.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal

    adj.acting in a way that is not natural or sincere, usually to impress people.

    adj.artificial, pretentious, or designed to impress; describing behavior or speech that lacks genuineness.

    Simple

    He spoke with an affected accent that made him sound like he was from another country.

    In context

    Her affected mannerisms and constant name-dropping made it difficult for her colleagues to engage with her on a professional level.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Literary

    adj.feeling strong emotions because of something you have seen or heard.

    adj.emotionally moved or touched by a particular experience or piece of information.

    Simple

    She was deeply affected by the sad news of her friend's accident.

    In context

    The audience was visibly affected by the soloist's haunting performance, remaining in silence for several moments after the final note.

    indifferentunmoved
  4. 04 C2 Proficiency FormalTechnical

    n.a person who has been hurt or changed by something like a disease or a disaster.

    n.a person who is impacted by a specific condition, disaster, or disease; often used in the plural.

    Simple

    The government is providing extra support for the affected of the earthquake.

    In context

    The clinical trial focused on the long-term recovery of the affected, specifically those who had exhibited symptoms for more than six months.

Usage affected by the issues · affected areas · affected communities

Heatwaves have particularly affected France, Spain, Greece and the Balkans this summer.

Al Jazeera· 14 Aug 2026

It said hospitality and retail companies, many of which rely heavily on zero hours workers, would be most affected by the change.

BBC News· 13 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated