A2verb 2K

Affect

UK /["/əˈfekt/","/əˈfekts/","/əˈfektɪd/","/əˈfektɪŋ/"]/ US /["/əˈfekt/","/əˈfekts/","/əˈfektɪd/","/əˈfektɪŋ/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

to produce a change in somebody/something

Listen to definition

In simple words: to change or influence something

Examples

• The weather can greatly affect our mood.
• Her words did not seem to affect him at all.
• Many factors can affect the outcome of the game.
• The music can affect how we feel during a movie.
• Changes in temperature can affect the growth of plants.
• His decision to leave will affect the whole team.

Usage notes

Use 'affect' to describe how one thing changes another. It is not interchangeable with 'effect', which is a result. Avoid using 'affect' as a noun.

Grammar pattern

affect + object

Memory hint

Think of 'A' in 'affect' as 'action' that causes a change.

Collocations

• dramatically
• greatly
• materially
• be likely to
• deeply
• profoundly

Synonyms

• put something on

Antonyms

• preserve
• remain
• maintain

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'affect' vs 'effect'
• 'Affect' used as a noun instead of a verb
• Using 'affect' with an incorrect subject