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noun

effect

ih-FEHKT
noun
1
A change that is the result or consequence of something else.
"The new policy had an immediate effect on sales."
"One effect of the new law was a drop in traffic accidents."
verb
1
To bring about; to cause to happen.
"The new manager effected several changes to the schedule."
"The reforms effected a real change in how the department operates."

How to Use Effect

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA result caused by something else.

Common mistake

Effect is usually the NOUN (the result); affect is usually the VERB (to influence).

Easily confused with

Word Forms

effects plural

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The new policy had an immediate _____ on sales.

Etymology

From Latin effectus, "accomplished, brought about."

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial