Affected: meaning, definitions and examples

Sometimes used similarly to 'affected' but with a more formal tone, particularly in medical or technical contexts.

• The disease affected a large portion of the population
• The regulations affected local businesses

Used when referring to a more subtle or indirect effect on someone's opinion, behavior, or decisions. The connotation is often one of gradual or persuasive change.

• His friends influenced his choice of career
• The book has influenced my thinking on the subject

Typically describes a positive emotional effect, often used in personal or intimate situations where someone feels emotionally moved.

• I was touched by their generosity
• Her kind letter touched his heart

This term implies a significant or strong effect, often used in business, environmental, or social contexts. It can indicate both positive and negative consequences.

• Her speech impacted the audience profoundly
• The new law has impacted the economy

This word is often used to describe someone who is trying to impress others by being something they're not. It can suggest that the person's behavior is unnatural or exaggerated.

• Her affected accent made it hard to tell where she was really from
• His affected manners didn't fool anyone at the party

This word is used when something is not natural or genuine. It often refers to objects or behaviors that are made or done to imitate something else.

• The artificial flowers looked real from a distance
• His smile seemed artificial, lacking any true warmth

This word describes someone who tries to appear more important, talented, or cultured than they really are. It usually has a negative implication.

• His pretentious speeches at the dinner parties annoyed many of the guests
• The restaurant's pretentious decor did not match the quality of the food

This word is used when someone is not being honest or genuine in their feelings or expressions. It often has a negative connotation.

• She gave him an insincere apology just to get him off her back
• His insincere compliments were evident to everyone