Affect

Definition

Affect is both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to influence or make a difference to something. As a noun, it refers to an observable expression of emotion or mood, especially in psychology.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• Verb IPA Pronunciation: /əˈfɛkt/
• Verb Respelling: uh-FEKT
• Noun IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæfɛkt/
• Noun Respelling: AF-ekt

British English

• Verb IPA Pronunciation: /əˈfɛkt/
• Verb Respelling: uh-FEKT
• Noun IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæfɛkt/
• Noun Respelling: AF-ekt

Etymology

The word "affect" as a verb originates from the Latin term "afficere," meaning "to influence" or "to work upon." The noun form entered English in the 17th century in psychological contexts, referring to an emotional response or disposition.

Derivatives

• Affected (adjective)
• Affecting (adjective)
• Affective (adjective)
• Affection (noun)
• Affectation (noun)

Synonyms

• Influence
• Alter
• Impact

Antonyms

• Unaffect
• Ignore
• Neglect

Usage

The word "affect" is used both to describe the action of influencing something (verb) and, in psychology, to describe emotional expression (noun). For example, "The weather can affect people's moods," or "The patient’s affect was flat during the evaluation."

Related Terms

• Effect: The result or outcome of an influence or action.
• Emotion: A feeling such as happiness, sadness, or anger.
• Disposition: A person’s inherent qualities of mind and character.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To influence or make a difference to something: Refers to causing a change or impact in someone or something.
  • Example: "The policy changes will affect the entire workforce."

Noun

• An observable expression of emotion or mood: Often used in psychology to describe the external display of emotional response.
  • Example: "The therapist observed the patient's affect during the session."