A2verb2K

Affect

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

Definition

to produce a change in somebody/something

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