Meaning & use

effect

noun·Academic

A change or result that is produced by a cause or action.

See it in a sentence

The new lighting had an immediate effect on the mood of the room.

Doctors are still studying the long-term effects of the medication on patients.

A note on using this word

Effect is a noun meaning a result; do not confuse it with affect, the verb meaning to influence.

Words with a similar meaning

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

Another way to use it

2. verb

To bring about or cause something to happen, especially a change.

The new director effected sweeping changes within her first year.

Make it your own

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