A LITTLE WORD KNOW-HOW

Affect or Effect? Correct Spelling & Examples

In common uses, affect is a verb meaning to influence, while effect is a noun meaning a result. There are other senses, so context still matters.

See it in a sentence

The clue can affect your guess. Its effect may be helpful.

Try a quick check

Compare “The delay affected our game” with “The delay had an effect.” These show the common verb/noun distinction. Effect can also be a verb meaning to bring about, as in effect a change, so the shortcut is not an absolute rule. Read what the sentence actually claims before choosing.