What's the difference between 'affect' and 'effect'?

[Bao Huong]

Common Errors in English, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #13 "Infinitive vs. Gerund", question 4

The affect of increasing the tax on motor fuel meant that the average family was finding it difficult to run a car.

(a) affect
(b) fuel
(c) average family
(d) run

Common Errors in English, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #13 "Infinitive vs. Gerund", answer 4

The effect of increasing the tax on motor fuel meant that the average family was finding it difficult to run a car.

Correct entry: effect
The error was: (a) affect
_________________________

I often mistake 2 words: "affect" and "effect". Please explain to me. Thank you very much.

Bao Huong

[Lucien_Librarian]

To quote:

"To affect is to act upon a person's emotions: Adverse criticism of the book didn't affect the author."

"Usage Note: Affect and effect have no senses in common. As a verb affect is most commonly used in the sense of "to influence" (how smoking affects health). Effect means "to bring about or execute": layoffs designed to effect savings. Thus the sentence These measures may affect savings could imply that the measures may reduce savings that have already been realized, whereas These measures may effect savings implies that the measures will cause new savings to come about."

[Yankee]

Hi Bao Huong

You might find this thread helpful: Affect vs effect

Amy