that affects

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that affects" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that has an impact or influence on a person, situation, or thing. Example: "The new policy is one that affects all employees in the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That affects everything they do".

Independent

So that affects things.

The Guardian - Sport

But that affects the athletes too.

The Economist

But it's production that affects the planet.

The Guardian

It's something that affects continuity and stability.

The New York Times

"It's something that affects me deeply.

The New York Times - Sports

It's not something that affects me now.

Independent

This is not a problem that affects this movie.

The Guardian - Film

Kovaleski has arthrogryposis, a congenital condition that affects joint movement.

The Guardian

I think sometimes that affects the Open, for sure".

The New York Times - Sports

I don't think that affects his chances any".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "influences" or "impacts" to avoid repetition and maintain reader engagement.

Common error

Avoid using "that affects" when the connection is tenuous or indirect. Ensure a clear causal link exists; otherwise, consider using phrases like "is related to" or "is associated with" to convey a weaker relationship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that affects" functions as a relative clause modifying a noun or pronoun. It introduces a clause that describes the way the prior noun influences something else. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatically correct usage, as exemplified in numerous real-world sentences.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that affects" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate a direct influence or impact. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability. It commonly appears in news, scientific and formal business writing, serving to establish cause-and-effect relationships. While broadly applicable, varying your vocabulary by using alternatives such as "that influences" or "that impacts" can enhance your writing. Understanding the context and the strength of the relationship you want to convey is key to effective usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that influences

Replaces "affects" with a synonym emphasizing persuasive or subtle impact.

that impacts

Substitutes "affects" with a synonym highlighting significant or direct consequences.

that has an effect on

Rephrases using a more formal structure, focusing on the resultant effect.

that bears on

Uses a more subtle phrasing, indicating relevance or connection.

that has a bearing on

Similar to 'bears on' but slightly more emphatic about relevance.

that determines

Indicates a more decisive influence, where the outcome is directly decided.

that shapes

Suggests a formative or molding influence.

that plays a role in

Highlights the contribution, whether major or minor, to a particular outcome.

that contributes to

Emphasizes how something adds to a final result or situation.

that has consequences for

Directly points to the repercussions or results of something.

FAQs

How can I use "that affects" in a sentence?

Use "that affects" to show a direct impact or influence. For example, "The new policy is one "that affects" all employees." Ensure the connection between the subject and the affected entity is clear.

What are some alternatives to "that affects"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "that influences", "that impacts", or "that has an effect on".

Is "that affects" formal or informal?

"That affects" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, you might consider alternatives such as "that has a bearing on" for a more sophisticated tone.

What's the difference between "that affects" and "that impacts"?

While often interchangeable, "that affects" generally indicates a broader range of influence, whereas "that impacts" often suggests a more significant or direct effect. The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.