ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7English and Language UsageMedium
A healthcare professional is documenting an incident report. They write, 'The patient expressed concern about the new policy, but it's affects on their treatment are minimal.' Which word in the sentence is used incorrectly?
- Aexpressed
- Baffects
- Cminimal
- Dconcern
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. affects
The word 'affects' is used incorrectly. 'Affects' is typically a verb (to influence), while 'effects' is usually a noun (the result or outcome). In this sentence, the context requires a noun ('its effects'), not a verb.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 'Expressed' is used correctly as a verb meaning to convey thoughts or feelings.
- C. 'Minimal' is used correctly as an adjective meaning very small in amount or degree.
- D. 'Concern' is used correctly as a noun meaning worry or anxiety.
Affect vs. Effect
Commonly confused words: 'affect' is primarily a verb meaning to influence; 'effect' is primarily a noun meaning result or outcome.
- Affect (verb): to influence, to change. (e.g., 'The medicine affected him.')
- Effect (noun): a result, an outcome. (e.g., 'The medicine had a positive effect.')
- Less common uses: 'affect' as a noun (emotion, psychological term); 'effect' as a verb (to bring about).
Memory trick: A is for Action (Affect), E is for End Result (Effect).