effect

Universal Words noun, verb noun 1 [C,U] ~ (on sb/sth) a change that sb/sth causes in sb/sth else; a result: the effect of heat on metal * dramatic / long-term effects * to learn to distinguish between cause and effect * the beneficial effects of exercise * Modern farming methods can have an adverse effect on the environment. * Her criticisms had the effect of discouraging him completely. * Despite her ordeal, she seems to have suffered no ill effects. * I can certainly feel the effects of too many late nights. * 'I'm feeling really depressed.' 'The winter here has that effect sometimes.' * I tried to persuade him, but with little or no effect. seealsoGREENHOUSEEFFECT, KNOCK-ON, SIDEEFFECT -< AFFECT 2 [C,U] a particular look, sound or impression that sb, such as an artist or a writer, wants to create: The overall effect of the painting is overwhelming. * The stage lighting gives the effect of a moonlit scene. * Add a scarf for a casual effect. * He only behaves like that for effect (= in order to impress people). seealsoSPECIALEFFECTS, SOUNDEFFECT 3 (effects) [pl.] (formal, written) your personal possessions: The insurance policy covers all baggage and personal effects. IDIOMS bring / put sth into effect to cause sth to come into use: The recommendations will soon be put into effect. come into effect to come into use; to begin to apply: New controls come into effect next month. in effect 1 used when you are stating what the facts of a situation are: In effect, the two systems are identical. * His wife had, in effect, run the government for the past six months. * By asking for these particular qualifications, you are, in effect, excluding most women from applying. 2 (of a law or rule) in use: These laws are in effect in twenty states. take effect 1 to start to produce the results that are intended: The aspirins soon take effect. 2 to come into use; to begin to apply: The new law takes effect from tomorrow. to the effect that...