A versus E

What's the difference between "affect" and "effect"? Hint: It may be more complicated than you think. Learn more on today's episode of Grammar Minute!

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Welcome to the Grammar Minute, where we’re saving the English language sixty seconds at a time! I’m Lauren Smyth, and today we’re tackling a one-letter error. A versus E. Affect versus effect.
Most people think of “affect” as a verb and “effect” as a noun. The problem is, both words can actually be either verbs or nouns. So if you really want to up your vocabulary, it’s better to remember what each word actually means.
“Affect” as a noun means “attitude.” This is psychology jargon and not common in conversation. More likely, you’ll see it used as a verb, meaning “to change something.”
“Effect” as a noun means “result.” And as a verb, it means “to accomplish something.” This usage is less common, but you might hear it in older or British English.
So: “My advice AFFECTED the outcome.” But: “The EFFECT was to change the outcome.”
That’s your Grammar Minute! Visit thegrammarminute.com for more tips and tricks.