Vashon G.

asked • 06/15/19

What is the difference between effects and affects?

The firework show had great effects or affects?

Jennifer K.

That’s a great question and one of the most commonly confused word usages: https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/top-10-commonly-confused-words-vol-1 Basically, effect is typically a noun (a thing) whereas affect is a verb (doing something). In this case, effects is a noun meaning “lighting, sound or scenery used in a play, movie or broadcast.” For your example, this is correct: “The firework show had great effects” because effects is a thing/noun. For more explanation, Grammar Girl is usually a good source: https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/education/grammar/affect-versus-effect I am writing coach and grammarian so feel free to look up my profile. I hope that helps. Good luck! Jennifer
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06/19/19

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Gary Q. answered • 06/19/19

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Affect is a verb and means to influence or to produce a change in something.


For example: "This stressful testing environment is affecting the way I think."


Effect is a noun and means the result of a change.


For example: "The effect of studying all night for the test was clear."


Here is a trick to remembering the difference: Affect starts with the letter "a", like in the word "action" – meaning it's a verb. Effect as in "Cause and Effect." It is the end result of something.


So in your case: "The firework show had great effects."


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