Difference between Effect and Affect

The English language words Effect and Affect sound similar but have different meanings, as I shall explain, using British English examples.

Effect as a noun means the change caused by something else. "Cause and effect" is a common phrase describing the fact that actions produce consequences. Affect is a verb meaning to produce a change in something or someone else.

One mnemonic device is remembering that Affect starts with "A" like Action, while Effect starts with "E" like End result. Affect is pronounced as uh-fekt, and Effect is pronounced as ih-fekt.

Here are some example sentences using British English:

"The cancellation of the cricket match was the effect of heavy rain."
"The effect of your actions on the victim was quite severe."
"Do you have any idea what effect not phoning him would have?"
"His tiredness affected his ability to drive safely."
"You can't affect the result unless you put in some effort."

However, more advanced students of English will also know that Effect is also a verb meaning to cause something to happen or to make intentional change, often used in legal or political contexts. It is similar to the verbs accomplish, achieve, introduce and carry out.

"The government effected wide-ranging changes to their social policies."
"If you effect those price changes, many people will stop coming."

Use the above guidelines to help you choose the right word in your next English language assignment.

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