Question: affect & effect

[BillSykesDog]

What is the difference and when should each be used?

Thanks

Affect is the verb: eg will this affect my car?
Effect is the noun: what effect will this have on my car?

Usually :) although much more rarely affect can be a noun and effect a verb.

Thank you. Stealth, what are the exceptions?

Affect can be used to describe facial expression / demeanour
effect as a verb means to totally bring about. So affect as a verb means to make some impact on... effect as a verb means to entirely make it happen.

So you would effect rather than affect a change because it is totally carried out?

And you would affect surprise?

Yes to effect. Today I will effect peace in the middle east and be home in time for tea.
I think you're right with the affect example but it's still a verb in thatexample. "Lack of affect" would imply you can't tell how the person is feeling from their outward appearance.
I think!