Affect Is Usually the Verb, Effect Usually the Noun
An effect is a result. The confusion with affect is the single most common word mix-up in English, and one rule solves most of it.
An effect is a result or consequence. The rule that handles most cases: *affect* is the verb, *effect* is the noun. Rain affects the crops; the effect is a poor harvest. The exceptions are real but rare — *effect* as a verb means to bring about, and *affect* as a noun is a psychological term for emotional expression.
- A result. *The effect of the change.*
- An impression. *Sound effects.*
- To bring about. *Effect a settlement.*
- In effect — in practice. *In effect, a ban.*
Word forms
| Form | Word | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Noun | effect | A lasting effect. |
| Plural | effects | Personal effects. |
| Verb | effect | Effect a change. |
| Adjective | effective | An effective remedy. |
| Confusable | affect | It affects me. |
How it is used in a sentence
- The medicine had no effect.Noun.
- The delay affected everyone.Verb.
- They effected a merger.The rare verb sense: brought it about.
Effective, efficient, effectual
- Effective — producing the intended result
- Efficient — producing it with little waste
- Effectual — achieving the intended legal or practical effect
- Efficacious — effective, used mainly of medicines
- Effects — also means personal belongings
From Latin *effectus*, an accomplishment, from *efficere*, to work out, from *ex* and *facere*, to do.
Affect or effect?
Affect is nearly always the verb and effect the noun. Effect as a verb means to bring about, and is rare.
Effective or efficient?
Effective means it works. Efficient means it works without wasting time or resources.