Effect Meaning and Definition
Effect
Pronunciation
/ɪˈfɛkt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A result or outcome of a particular action or set of circumstances; a change that occurs as a consequence of something else.
Examples
- The effect of the earthquake was devastating.
- The new policy will have a significant effect on the company’s profits.
Synonyms
- Result
- Outcome
- Consequence
Antonyms
- Cause
- Origin
Etymology
The word “effect” comes from the Old French “efect”, which is derived from the Latin “effectus”, meaning “implementing, putting into execution”.
Usage Notes
Effect is often used to describe the outcome of a process or action, whereas cause describes the reason why something happens.
Cultural References
The term “effect” is used widely in popular culture, including in music, film, and literature.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- The effect and cause
- To take effect
- By effect
Related Words or Phrases
- Outcome
- Result
- Consequence
Collocations
- The good/bad effect of
- To have a positive/negative effect
- The effect of
Frequency of Use
Effect is a common word in everyday language, used to describe the results of actions, events, or processes.
Common Misspellings
- Effecst
- Effict