Grammatically Correct 09/07/04
A weekly grammar tip created by Academic Center Peer Writing Tutors.
University of Houston-Victoria
3007 N. Ben Wilson
Victoria, TX 77901
Affect versus Effect
by David Felts
The ability to use these words appropriately when writing leads to a clearer understanding of meaning for your reader.

Affect is the usual verb. (It is commonly equated to “to influence.”)

Ex: How will your decision affect(v) your child?

Effect is the usual noun. (It is commonly equated to “result.”)

Ex: What effect(n) will this have on your relationship?

Effect can act as a verb. (This use is formal. It does not mean the same as “affect.”)

Ex: I effected(v) a plan of action for the group.

Note that in this sentence “effected” is equated to “to make happen.”

Definitions

Affect (v)
to do something that produces an effect or change in someone or something

Effect (n)
the way in which an event, action, or person changes someone or something

Effect (v)
to make something happen

Definitions are from the Longman Advanced American Dictionary.
Recommended Grammar Website of the Week
by David Felts
Along with our website, we recommend the following site: English Works!. English Works! has easy to understand definitions and exercises for areas in grammar and punctuation. This website also offers helpful tips for different kinds of writing.
Test Your Affect versus Effect Knowledge
by David Felts
Test your knowledge by correcting the following sentences.

1. The affect of my hard work was my high GPA.

2. Will your lack of spare time effect your happiness?

3. I have affected drastic change in my priorities.

Answers

1. The effect of my hard work was my high GPA.

2. Will your lack of spare time affect your happiness?

3. I have effected drastic change in my priorities

 

Grammatically Correct is a grammar tip of the week created by Academic Center Peer Writing Tutors at the University of Houston-Victoria in Victoria, Texas.

Comments about this newsletter should be directed to Summer Leibensperger, leibenspergers@uhv.edu.

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