Word
effected
Phoneticsef·fect·ed, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈifɛktəd/
UK/ɪfˈɛktɪd/
Definitions
01to make happen
C1 · Advanced Formal
v. to make a change or a result happen, especially through effort.
v. to bring about a result or to put a change into operation. Transitive; typically takes objects like 'change', 'repairs', or 'reforms'.
“The new manager effected several changes to the way the team works.”
“The administration effected significant policy reforms during its first hundred days, despite facing considerable opposition from the legislative branch.”
02modified by effects
C2 · Proficiency Music Technical
adj. describes a sound or image that has been changed using electronic tools or software.
adj. referring to a signal, audio track, or visual element that has undergone processing via external effects units or software plugins.
“The singer's voice sounded strange because it was heavily effected.”
“The producer decided that the effected guitar track sat better in the mix than the dry, unprocessed signal.”
Antonyms
Usage
The verb is transitive and takes a direct object. It is often confused with 'affect', which means to influence rather than to bring about.
Pitfall
The policy affected a change
The policy effected a change
Learners often use 'affect' (to influence) when they mean 'effect' (to bring about/create). Use 'effected' when the subject is the direct cause of the result.
Real-World Examples
“When he retreated into drink – shades of her father – she effected a neat swap by divorcing, then marrying his paternal cousin.” Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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