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what does the word effect mean?

Clive · Accepted Answer

Hi,

May I ask if you have looked it up in your dictionary?

Best wishes, Clive

CalifJim · Answer

Anonymous~~what~~ What does the word effect mean?

From www.m-w.com

ef·fect
Function: noun

1 a: purport, intent b: basic meaning : essence 2: something that inevitably follows an antecedent (as a cause or agent) 3: an outward sign : appearance 4: accomplishment, fulfillment 5: power to bring about a result : influence <the content itself of television…is therefore less important than its effect — Current Biography> 6plural : movable property : goods <personal effects> 7 a: a distinctive impression <the color gives the effect of being warm> b: the creation of a desired impression <her tears were purely for effect> c (1): something designed to produce a distinctive or desired impression —usually used in plural (2)plural : special effects8: the quality or state of being operative : operation <the law goes into effect next week>
— in effect
: in substance : virtually <the…committee agreed to what was in effect a reduction in the hourly wage — Current Biography>
— to the effect
: with the meaning <issued a statement to the effect that he would resign>

effect
Function: transitive verb

1: to cause to come into being 2 a: to bring about often by surmounting obstacles : accomplish <effect a settlement of a dispute> b: to put into operation <the duty of the legislature to effect the will of the citizens>
synonyms see perform

usage Effect and affect are often confused because of their similar spelling and pronunciation. The verb 2affect usually has to do with pretense <she affected a cheery disposition despite feeling down>. The more common 3affect denotes having an effect or influence <the weather affected everyone's mood>. The verb effect goes beyond mere influence; it refers to actual achievement of a final result <the new administration hopes to effect a peace settlement>. The uncommon noun affect, which has a meaning relating to psychology, is also sometimes mistakenly used for the very common effect. In ordinary use, the noun you will want is effect <waiting for the new law to take effect> <the weather had an effect on everyone's mood>.

CJ

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