AFFECT Synonyms: 135 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the verb 'affect' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of affect are assume , counterfeit , feign , pretend , sham , and simulate . While all these words mean "to put on a false or deceptive appearance," affect implies making a false show of possessing, using, or feeling. // affected an interest in art

Q: When is 'assume' a more appropriate choice than 'affect'?

The meanings of assume and affect largely overlap; however, assume often implies a justifiable motive rather than an intent to deceive. // assumed an air of cheerfulness around the patients

Q: When could 'counterfeit' be used to replace 'affect'?

While in some cases nearly identical to affect , counterfeit implies achieving the highest degree of verisimilitude of any of these words. // an actor counterfeiting drunkenness

Q: How does the word 'feign' relate to other synonyms for 'affect'?

Feign implies more artful invention than pretend , less specific mimicry than simulate . // feigned sickness

Q: When is it sensible to use 'pretend' instead of 'affect'?

The words pretend and affect are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, pretend implies an overt and sustained false appearance. // pretended that nothing had happened

Q: When would 'sham' be a good substitute for 'affect'?

In some situations, the words sham and affect are roughly equivalent. However, sham implies an obvious falseness that fools only the gullible. // shammed a most unconvincing limp

Q: When might 'simulate' be a better fit than 'affect'?

The synonyms simulate and affect are sometimes interchangeable, but simulate suggests a close imitation of the appearance of something. // cosmetics that simulate a suntan

affect 1 of 2

verb (1)

Definition of affect next

as in to influence

to act upon (a person or a person's feelings) so as to cause a response their son claims that scary movies don't affect him in the least

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Relevance

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as in to involve

to be the business or affair of fortunately, hurricane season doesn't affect the West Coast

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affect

2 of 2

verb (2)

as in to simulate

to present a false appearance of she affected complete unawareness that we were talking about her, though she must have overheard

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as in to haunt

to go to or spend time in often a power couple known to affect all the fancy parties in town

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb affect contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of affect are assume, counterfeit, feign, pretend, sham, and simulate. While all these words mean "to put on a false or deceptive appearance," affect implies making a false show of possessing, using, or feeling.