|
|
Affect vs. Effect Affect is most often used as a verb meaning ‘to have an influence on; to act on the emotions of.' - Correct: With that much hairspray, the wind can't affect your hair! - Correct: The weather can affect my mood. - Incorrect: They rearranged their living room furniture but didn't like the affect. Effect is most often used as a noun meaning ‘result' (think ‘cause and effect') but can also be used as a verb to mean ‘to bring about.' - Correct: A large power outage was one effect of the storm. (result) - Correct: Only the president can effect such a change. (to bring about) - Incorrect: Lack of sleep doesn't effect my ability to work. - Example with both correct: The drug did not affect the disease but instead had a negative effect. |
Any more vs. Anymore Any more means ‘anything additional or further,' and often means ‘no more,' negatively. Correct: - We don't want any more trouble. - Do you have any more bread? Incorrect: - Anymore pasta and I'll burst! Anymore (adverb) means ‘from now on' or ‘any longer.' Correct: - We won't go there anymore. Incorrect: - Since they broke up, he doesn't see her any more. |
Baited vs. Bated Baited: (verb) lured, enticed - I baited the mousetrap so we'd catch the little thief! Bated: (adjective) suspended, abated - We waited with bated breath while Joan opened the gift. |