Effect

“Result, nconsequence” or “sounds in a movie” or “accomplishment”–the list goes on! All of these definitions make it difficult to understand how to use effect when there are so many meanings. Check out how we have broken it down bit by bit, to disambiguate the uses for you.

Verb

Rules

  • When used as a verb effect means, “to bring about something or to accomplish a task”.

Examples

  • As a nutritionist, Mary wanted to positively effect change in people’s lives.

Noun

Rules

  • When used as a noun, an effect is, “a result or an outcome”.
  • It can also mean, “a personal item”. Therefore, always use effect when the preceding words that are articles (such as “a, an, the, any”) or “take, into and no”.

Examples

  • “The effect of the movie was that Sally remained sad all afternoon.”
  • “Ryan came over to collect his deceased father’s personal effects.”

Adjective

Rules

  • The word effective means, “producing a desired outcome”. It can also mean, “to be striking”.

Examples

  • “Terry’s new technique was effective in teaching the new recruits the lesson.”
  • “Kathy’s diamond was large, brilliant and effective.”

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