Welcome to the Grammar Minute, where we’re saving the English language sixty seconds at a time! I’m Lauren Smyth, and I’m here to explain the difference between “affect” and “effect.”

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“Effect” is usually seen in its noun form, meaning “result.” “The effects of this policy were unpredictable,” for example. Less commonly, you might hear someone say “effect” as a verb, as in “effect a change,” to mean that something is being done.

“Affect” is usually seen in its verb form and means basically the same thing as influence. “My actions affect yours,” for example. Less commonly, “affect” can be used as a noun, referring to displays of emotion in response to some outside provocation.

Of note: “Affect” never means “result,” and “effect” never means “influence.”

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