Understanding the Difference Between Affect Change and Effect Change

Difference Between “Affect Change” and “Effect Change”

History of the Words

The words “affect” and “effect” come from Latin. “Affect” comes from “afficere” which means “to act on.” “Effect” comes from “efficere” which means “to make or cause.”

How to Use Them

Affect Change

“Affect” is a verb. It means to make something different. When you “affect change,” you are trying to make change happen.

Effect Change

“Effect” is a noun most times, but it can also be a verb. As a verb, “effect” means to make something happen. When you “effect change,” you are making change happen.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember: “Affect” with an “A” means to Act on something. “Effect” with an “E” means to End or bring something about.

Example Sentences

Affect Change

• The new teacher wants to affect change in the classroom.
• Good leaders can affect change in their teams.
• We need to affect change in our habits to stay healthy.
• The weather can affect change in our travel plans.
• Parents try to affect change when they talk to their children.

Effect Change

• The new law will effect change in the community.
• Strong rules can effect change over time.
• They worked hard to effect change in their city.
• The group’s mission is to effect change in schools.
• Doctors can effect change in patients’ lives.

Summary

“Affect change” means to try to make change happen. “Effect change” means to make change happen. Use “affect” when talking about trying to make a difference. Use “effect” when you are bringing about the change.