How to pronounce effect
Say it like EE-fekt. Effect has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (EE).
- EE
- fekt
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Effect pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- EESay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
- fektKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
American vs British pronunciation of effect
- The stress moves: Americans stress syllable 1, while British speakers stress syllable 2.
British respelling: ih-FEKT.
Other ways to say effect
Effect also has these pronunciations, usually with a different meaning or use:
- ih-FEKT /ɪˈfɛkt/
- uh-FEKT /əˈfɛkt/
What does effect mean?
- The result or outcome of a cause.“The effect of the hurricane was a devastated landscape.”
- Impression left on the mind; sensation produced.
- Execution; performance; realization; operation.
- To make or bring about; to implement.“The best way to effect change is to work with existing stakeholders.”
Where does effect come from?
Of the verb: from Middle English effecten, partly from Medieval Latin effectuō, from Latin effectus, perfect passive participle of efficiō (“accomplish, complete, do, effect”), from ex (“out”) + faciō (“do, make”) (see fact and compare affe
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Opposite meaning
Words that rhyme with effect
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of effect.
Questions about saying effect
How do you pronounce effect?
Say EE-fekt. The American pronunciation is /ˈifɛkt/. In British English it is /ɪˈfɛkt/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in effect?
Effect has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (EE). Broken into parts: EE · fekt.
Is effect pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. The stress moves: Americans stress syllable 1, while British speakers stress syllable 2. The British form is /ɪˈfɛkt/ (ih-FEKT).