What is the difference between words affect and effect?

"Affect" and "effect" are easily confused words, but there's a simple way to remember their difference:

* Affect is usually a verb, meaning "to influence or change."

* Example: "The bad weather affected our travel plans."

* Effect is usually a noun, meaning "a result or consequence."

* Example: "The effect of the bad weather was a delayed flight."

Here's a helpful mnemonic:

Think of the a in affect as standing for action (a verb), and the e in effect as standing for end result (a noun).

Exceptions:

* Affect can be used as a noun, but it's rare and usually refers to a feeling or emotion.

* Example: "He had a cold, distant affect."

* Effect can be used as a verb, meaning "to bring about or cause."

* Example: "The new law will effect a major change in the way we work."

In summary:

* Affect: Verb – to influence or change.

* Effect: Noun – a result or consequence.

Remember this simple rule, and you'll always use "affect" and "effect" correctly!