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Effect as a verb - is this an error?

Posted: 14 Jun 2022, 16:11
by Her Fan
Though not really a physical law, it is powerful enough to effect matter.
I have read that "effect" can be used as a verb under certain circumstances. Is this one of them or is it an error where effect needs to be replaced with affect?

Re: Effect as a verb - is this an error?

Posted: 15 Jun 2022, 15:03
by Janet Kimetto
Hi there. The sentence doesn't tell enough, so it could be right or wrong depending on the context. If "effect" is used to somehow mean "bring matter into existence," then it is correct. If it is used to mean "have an effect on matter," then it is incorrect because "effect" and "affect" do not mean the same thing and cannot be used interchangeably.

I hope that helps. Also, I came across the blog post below a few days ago, and I think you'll find it helpful.
https://prowritingaid.com/effect-or-aff ... -or-affect