The Strange Workings Of The English Language Part Three

Here is part two in my new series, where I take a look at the weird and wonderful world of words. If you missed part one, please click here. You’ll find part two here.

Q. What is the difference between effect and affect?

A. Effect is a noun. It means outcome, consequence, or appearance e.g. What effect will leaving the EU have on Britain?

Affect. To affect is a verb. It means to transform or to change e.g. Does the hot weather affect you?

Interesting word of the week:

QUIXOTIC

Meaning: Impractical; unrealistic; exceedingly idealistic.

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Story

Picture credit: blog.modcloth.com

10 responses to “The Strange Workings Of The English Language Part Three”

  1. But just to twist the knife, you can find somebody’s attitude ‘affected’ whilst you can say that somebody has ‘effected’ change. But probably only if you’re American or addicted to ‘business-speak’ 🙂

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    1. The wonders of the English language!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. indeed 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

  2. * watches as everything flies over his head *

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I’ll be testing you on it later in the week!

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  3. Reblogged this on Author Don Massenzio and commented:
    Check out part 3 of Esther Chilton’s series on the strange workings of the English Language from this post on her blog

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Much appreciated 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      1. You’re welcome.

        Liked by 1 person

  4. […] Esther Newton’s June 18th interesting word of the week: “quixotic.” Please visit Esther Newton’s blog for great writing and publishing […]

    Liked by 1 person

  5. I wrote the poem Quixote Thoughts, based on your interesting word of the week, and posted it today on Simplicity Lane.

    Quixotic Thoughts (odd word poem)

    Liked by 1 person

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