
If you want to use a noun, chances are you want effect. If the word you’re using is a verb, chances are you want affect. This sense of effect appears in a few common idiomatic phrases, including in effect and take effect. Effect is most commonly used as a noun meaning “a result or consequence,” as in His words had the intended effect (result). affect or effectĪffect is most commonly used as a verb meaning “to act on or produce a change in someone or something,” as in Even a small adjustment can affect (change) the outcome of the experiment. And affect can also be used as a noun referring to a state of emotion, as in He had a sad affect. But effect can also be used as a verb meaning to make happen, most commonly in the phrase effect change. Would you like a current or future assignment to be reviewed by the Writing Center? If so please visit the Writing Center's Paper Reviews webpage and make an appointment with us!ĭo you have other general writing questions? Email the Writing Center at questions about your doctoral capstone or the form and style review? Email the form and style editors at to peruse other writing resources? Go to the Writing Center’s home page.Affect is most commonly used as a verb meaning “to act on or produce a change in someone or something.” Effect is most commonly used as a noun meaning “a result or consequence,” as in cause and effect. View a list of these commonly confused words on the Writing Center's website.

Of course, there are exceptions (both "affect" and "effect" have other meanings in the dictionary), but these are the two most common uses. "Effect" is usually used as a noun, a thing.Įxample: One effect of the earthquake was that many people lost their homes. "Affect" is usually used as a verb, an action.Įxample: The earthquake affected many people. However, there is a difference in their meanings. The words "affect" and "effect" are often confused with one another. 1 Student Wellness & Disability Services.15 Statistical Tests: Tests of Mean Differences.17 Statistical Tests: Probability and Regression.4 Statistical Tests: Multivariate Methods.39 Office of Research and Doctoral Services.5 Center for Global, Professional, and Applied Learning.

