Let’s talk about when to use affect versus effect. It’s a common query and the two words are very easy to confuse, even for seasoned writers.
You may be wondering why the effect versus affect usage even really matters, since most people can work out what you’re saying even if you use “effect” when the correct word is “affect.” Here’s why: words matter. Choosing the right words helps you communicate clearly and ensures your readers understand your meaning without having to work for it.
As a writer, you know the power of your words. When we string together individual ideas, presenting them in a beautiful, coherent thought, we help readers understand the world around them. Words can change a heart, convince a mind, and even alter the course of history. So knowing the meaning of words and using them in the correct, precise way could make all the difference to your readers.
Let’s briefly look at not only the specific definition of these words, but also affect vs effect examples, as well as a helpful acronym to keep the proper usage top of mind.
Affect vs Effect Examples and Definition
Affect is a verb (usually). Use this word when you want to impact or change a noun (person, place, or thing).
Example of “affect” in a sentence: Missing school could negatively affect your grades.
In this sentence, “missing school” has an impact on on the noun “grades,” so the correct term is “affect.”
Effect is a noun (usually). You use this word when you want to demonstrate the result of an impact or change.
Example of “effect” in a sentence: The effect of missing school was a failing grade.
In this sentence, “a failing grade” is the result of “missing school,” so the correct term is “effect.”
A Helpful Acronym for When to Use Affect vs Effect
The simple memory trick to keep this straight is R-A-V-E-N.
RAVEN stands for:
Remember
Affect
Verb
Effect
Noun
Remember, “affect” is a verb and “effect” is a noun. In most cases, this is how you determine when to use affect vs effect.
Affect vs Effect Exceptions
Of course, it wouldn’t be the English language if there weren’t times when “affect” is a noun and “effect” is a verb. Thankfully, this doesn’t happen often!
When using “affect” as a noun, it’s to describe an emotion or a feeling. This usage isn’t common and can be confusing even when used correctly.
Example of “affect” as a noun: I noticed my friend’s sad affect after the movie and was concerned.
In this sentence, “the movie” made my friend sad, thus my friend’s “sad affect.”
A simpler way of phrasing could be: The movie made my friend sad, which concerned me.
When using “effect” as a verb, it means “to bring about.” It’s an old usage of the word that doesn’t come up much because it makes sentences a bit clunky.
Example of “effect” as a verb: Our words have the power to effect change.
In this sentence, “our words” can bring about “change,” so we use the word “effect” as a verb.
A less confusing sentence with the same meaning could be: Our words can lead to change.
When in doubt of whether to use affect vs effect, stick to RAVEN. You’ll be correct 99% of the time.
Conclusion
Since these two terms have similar meanings and sounds, it’s easy to understand why so many writers get them mixed up. Things can affect you, but they can also have an effect on you. Both are true! Do your best, and then run your piece through a grammar checker or editing tool to make sure you’re using terms properly. These tools and resources are created to help catch those pesky errors so you can communicate your message with clarity and conviction.