affect vs. effect

[low_delta]

I know the difference between the words "affect" and "effect," but I have trouble explaining it. "Affect" is a verb, and "effect" is a noun (most commonly). That explains it pretty well, actually, but people still have trouble remembering. Does anyone have any mnemonic or any kind of trick they use to remember?

Comments

[rivendweller.livejournal.com]

"You cannot affect the effect!" In this sentence, "affect" is the verb, and "effect" is the noun. "A" comes before "E" in the alphabet.

[low-delta.livejournal.com]

That's pretty good! That's the rule that might stick. A coworker was having trouble with this one. I wrote your answer on the board by his desk. He's going to leave it there for a while, hoping it will sink in.

Thanks!

[rivendweller.livejournal.com]

Happy to help!