General descriptors:
* Emotional: This is the most basic description, as affect refers to emotions and their expression.
* Emotional state: This emphasizes the temporary nature of affect.
* Mood: This refers to a more prolonged and pervasive emotional state.
* Feeling: This is a more subjective experience of affect.
* Expression: This focuses on the outward manifestation of affect.
Specific descriptors (depending on the type of affect):
Positive Affect:
* Joyful
* Happy
* Content
* Excited
* Enthusiastic
* Hopeful
* Optimistic
* Confident
* Relaxed
* Calm
Negative Affect:
* Sad
* Depressed
* Anxious
* Stressed
* Angry
* Frustrated
* Fearful
* Guilty
* Shameful
* Hopeless
Other descriptors:
* Flat: A lack of emotional expression.
* Labile: Rapidly shifting emotions.
* Blunted: Reduced emotional intensity.
* Inappropriate: Emotional responses that are incongruent with the situation.
Specific to psychology:
* Affect regulation: The ability to manage and control emotions.
* Affect display: The way people express their emotions.
* Affect congruence: When emotional expression matches the underlying feeling.
It is important to consider the context and the specific meaning of "affect" when choosing the most appropriate words.