affect the outcome

USAGE SUMMARY

"affect the outcome" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to influences that could potentially alter or change the results of something. For example: "The decisions she makes will undoubtedly affect the outcome of the election."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It didn't affect the outcome.

The Guardian

Those choices affect the outcome in November.

The New York Times

This did not affect the outcome.

The Guardian

"You can directly affect the outcome.

The New York Times

Other factors may affect the outcome.

The Guardian - Opinion

-How did the trial's location affect the outcome?

The New York Times

But Dawson's intervention was too late to affect the outcome.

The Guardian - Sport

"This lawsuit is very unlikely to affect the outcome".

The New York Times

Did it affect the outcome of the war?

The Guardian

So for it to not affect the outcome is fantastic.

The Guardian - Sport

But McCarthy was given little chance to affect the outcome.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "affect the outcome", consider whether you want to emphasize a direct influence or a more subtle contribution. For direct impact, use verbs like "determine" or "shape". For a minor role, verbs like "contribute" or "play a role" are more appropriate.

Common error

A common error is to confuse "affect", which is typically a verb, with "effect", which is typically a noun. Remember that you "affect" (influence) the outcome, and the "effect" is the result of that influence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "affect the outcome" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the capacity to have an impact on the final result or consequence of a situation or event. This is supported by Ludwig, which identifies the phrase as grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

27%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "affect the outcome" is a versatile phrase used to describe influencing results. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability. It's commonly found in "News & Media" and scientific contexts and is suitable for neutral register situations. When writing, it's crucial to differentiate "affect" from "effect" and choose synonyms based on the desired nuance, such as "influence" for a subtle impact or "determine" for a decisive change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

influence the result

Changes the verb from "affect" to "influence", maintaining a general impact but with a slightly different connotation.

impact the conclusion

Replaces "outcome" with "conclusion", suggesting influence on a summary or final judgment.

shape the final result

Implies a more active role in molding the outcome, emphasizing the process of formation.

determine the consequence

Shifts the focus to establishing or deciding the final result, indicating a stronger level of control.

sway the ultimate result

Implies a persuasive influence that can change or alter the final result.

alter the consequences

Focuses on modifying or changing the results, highlighting the potential for transformation.

play a role in the outcome

Suggests participation or involvement in affecting the outcome, often as one of several factors.

have a bearing on the result

Indicates that something has relevance or influence on the result, often in a significant way.

contribute to the end result

Highlights the contribution towards achieving the end result, implying a positive or additive effect.

prejudice the result

Emphasizes a biased or unfair influence on the outcome, suggesting potential negativity.

FAQs

How can I use "affect the outcome" in a sentence?

You can use "affect the outcome" to describe actions or factors that influence the final result of a situation. For example, "Her decisions will significantly affect the outcome of the project".

What's the difference between "affect the outcome" and "influence the outcome"?

While "affect the outcome" and "influence the outcome" are similar, "affect" generally means to have an impact on something, while "influence" suggests a more persuasive or subtle impact. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct: "affect the outcome" or "effect the outcome"?

"Affect the outcome" is generally correct. "Affect" is a verb meaning to influence. "Effect" can be a noun meaning result, but is rarely used as a verb in this context. Therefore, using "affect" is the more appropriate choice.

What can I say instead of "affect the outcome"?

You can use alternatives like "influence the result", "determine the consequence", or "shape the final result" depending on the specific context.