ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7English and Language UsageMedium
A researcher is drafting a scientific paper about a new medication. The sentence reads: 'The medication's efficacy was thoroughly tested, and its potential side affects were carefully monitored.' Which of the following words is misused in the sentence?
- Aefficacy
- Baffects
- Cthoroughly
- Dmonitored
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. affects
'Affects' is used as a noun in the sentence, but 'affect' is primarily a verb meaning to influence. The correct word to use as a noun for the results or consequences is 'effects'. The sentence should read 'potential side effects'.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 'Efficacy' means the ability to produce a desired or intended result, which is correct in this context.
- C. 'Thoroughly' is an adverb correctly modifying 'tested', meaning completely and carefully.
- D. 'Monitored' is correctly used as a verb meaning to observe and check the progress or quality of something over a period of time.
Affect vs. Effect
These are often confused homophones. 'Affect' is typically a verb meaning to influence. 'Effect' is typically a noun meaning a result or consequence.
- Affect (verb): to influence, to produce a change in.
- Effect (noun): a result, a consequence, an outcome.
- Rare exceptions exist (e.g., 'affect' as a noun in psychology, 'effect' as a verb meaning to bring about), but the primary rules apply for general usage.
Memory trick: A is for Action (verb), E is for End Result (noun)