I just had a little discussion with my fiance that went something like this... But now I think that I was WRONG! I ran to the internets to check... but now I've read those words too many times and they've lost all meaning. Help!
To affect is to act upon something else i.e. it creates an effect However, there is a verb "to effect" which means to complete a purpose. This sentence might clarify (or confuse) the situation: "We effected a change in their behaviour by affecting their affect which led to the effect that they became more angry".
Long story short: If it's a verb, "affect" is probably correct. If it's a noun, "effect" is ALMOST ALWAYS correct. Now, the exceptions: As mentioned above, "effect" can be a verb meaning to bring about; to make (something) happen. And "affect," pronounced AFF-ect with the stress on the first syllable, means feeling or emotion. But it's seldom used outside the psychiatric profession. Next question?
Affect (UK) 1st definition: Influence somebody or something 2nd definition: stir somebodys emotion Effect (UK) 1st Def: result 2nd Def: power to influence NB: There other definitions but I've just given the first two listed.
The only confusing things about English are the crazy spelling and the proliferation of homophones. Otherwise, English is pretty straightforward, with a logical grammar and no genders. Now, if folks could only get “principal” and “principle” right . . .
Despite being a spelling and grammar Nazi, I have a complete mental block about "effect" versus "affect." I've long since given up on getting them straight.
Add to the fact there are different ways to spell the same word. i.e. Colour (English) Color (American English). Or words that sound the same or spelt different depending on context. i.e. Metre (a unit of length) or Meter (a device used to measure something)
I affect the environment by pouring oil down the storm drain. The environment is effected because I poured oil down the storm drain. It depends on the one doing it as opposed to the one hainvg it done to, I think.
^Something like that In order to affect a course they had to fire the thrusters. The firing of the thrusters effected a course change.
This is incorrect. Pouring oil down the storm drain did not create the environment. It should be affected.
Witch principals? Like Hogwarts headmasters? CorporalCaptain is right. Active or passive voice makes no difference. It would be correct to say, “The legislature effected changes in the law which affected the way businesses dispose of hazardous wastes.”