If you’ve ever wondered whether “to that effect” or “to that affect” is the correct phrase, you’re not alone. Because effect and affect sound alike, they are commonly confused. However, only one phrase is grammatically correct.
The correct phrase is “to that effect.” “To that affect” is incorrect because affect is usually a verb, while effect is the noun required in this expression.
Quick Answer
“To that effect” is the correct phrase.
“To that affect” is incorrect in standard English.
Correct Example
- The manager made a statement to that effect.
Incorrect Example
- The manager made a statement to that affect.
What Does “To That Effect” Mean?
To that effect is an idiomatic phrase that means:
- expressing the same idea
- having a similar meaning
- conveying approximately the same message
- using different words but the same intent
It’s often used when you don’t remember the exact wording but can summarize what was said.
Examples of “To That Effect” in Sentences
- She said something to that effect during the meeting.
- The email included a sentence to that effect.
- He nodded and replied to that effect.
- The article made a point to that effect.
- I don’t remember the exact quote, but it was to that effect.
Is “To That Affect” Correct?
No. “To that affect” is not a correct English phrase.
The confusion occurs because affect and effect are homophones—they sound alike but have different meanings.
Use:
- to that effect ✅
Not:
- to that affect ❌
Why Is It “To That Effect”?
In this phrase, effect is a noun meaning result, meaning, or intended message.
Affect is usually a verb meaning to influence.
Rule:
To That Effect vs To That Affect Comparison Table
| Feature | To That Effect | To That Affect |
|---|---|---|
| Correct phrase | Yes | No |
| Standard English | Yes | No |
| Dictionary approved | Yes | No |
| Professional writing | Yes | No |
| Academic writing | Yes | No |
Understanding Affect vs Effect
Effect (Noun)
Means:
- result
- outcome
- intended meaning
Examples:
- The medicine had a positive effect.
- She made a statement to that effect.
Affect (Verb)
Means:
- to influence
- to change
- to impact
Examples:
- Lack of sleep can affect your health.
- Weather affects travel plans.
Common Mistakes With “To That Effect”
Using Affect Instead of Effect
Incorrect:
- He said something to that affect.
Correct:
- He said something to that effect.
Confusing the Parts of Speech
Remember:
- effect = noun
- affect = verb
The phrase requires a noun, so effect is correct.
Common Uses of “To That Effect”
Summarizing a Statement
Example:
- She didn’t use those exact words, but she said something to that effect.
Referring to Written Text
Example:
- The contract contains a clause to that effect.
Reporting a Conversation
Example:
- He replied to that effect before leaving.
Similar Phrases
Depending on the context, you can also use:
- in other words
- along those lines
- something similar
- with that meaning
- in essence
Example
- He said something along those lines.
American vs British English Differences
There is no spelling difference.
Both American and British English use:
- to that effect
Neither uses:
- to that affect
Why Correct Spelling Matters
Using the correct phrase helps:
- improve readability
- strengthen professionalism
- build credibility
- avoid confusion
- communicate accurately
Using to that affect can make your writing appear grammatically incorrect.
Tips to Remember the Correct Phrase
Remember the Meaning
The phrase refers to the meaning or message, which is a noun.
Think:
- effect = meaning/result
Use the Noun Rule
If the phrase needs a noun, choose:
- effect
Practice With Sentences
- She made a comment to that effect.
- The report included a recommendation to that effect.
(FAQs)
Which phrase is correct: to that effect or to that affect?
To that effect is the correct phrase.
Is “to that affect” ever correct?
No. It is a common mistake.
What does “to that effect” mean?
It means expressing the same idea or conveying approximately the same meaning.
Why is “effect” used instead of “affect”?
Because effect is the noun required in the idiomatic phrase, while affect is usually a verb.
Is “to that effect” used in British and American English?
Yes. Both varieties use the same phrase.
What is the difference between affect and effect?
- Affect = usually a verb meaning to influence.
- Effect = usually a noun meaning result or meaning.
Can I use “to that effect” in formal writing?
Yes. It is common in business, legal, academic, and professional writing.
How can I remember the correct phrase?
Think:
- To that effect = to that meaning.
Since meaning is a noun, use effect.
Final Summary
The difference between to that effect vs to that affect is simple. “To that effect” is the correct idiomatic phrase because effect is the noun referring to the intended meaning or message. “To that affect” is incorrect and should not be used.
Whether you’re summarizing a conversation, quoting someone approximately, or referring to written text, to that effect is always the correct choice.
Actionable Takeaway
Whenever you mean “expressing the same idea” or “with that meaning,” write:
- to that effect ✅
Never write:
- to that affect ❌
A simple memory trick:
- Effect = meaning or result (noun).
- Affect = influence (verb).
Since the phrase needs a noun, always choose effect.
