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The Writing Center, Yakima Valley Community College

  

Should I use affect or effect?

 

 

q                Affect is a verb and will usually mean “to change,” “influence,” or “impact”:

 

·    The road closure will affect his ability to get here on time.

·    Ice on a sidewalk affects walking ability.

·    The weather forecast can affect what a person decides to wear for the day.

·    Typing speed often affects how fast a paper can be produced.

 

 

 

q                Effect is a noun that primarily means “a result”:

 

·    Bleach has a whitening effect on cloth.

·    The wind has a cooling effect on skin

·    Oil has a softening effect on the palm of a baseball glove.

·    Coffee has an energizing effect on many people.

 

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