affected
What does "affected" mean?
To be "affected" in this context means to behave in a way that is not natural or sincere, often to impress others or appear more sophisticated than one actually is. Imagine someone putting on a fake accent or using overly elaborate vocabulary just to show off; they are consciously "performing" a persona rather than being their true self. This word is almost always used with a negative connotation, suggesting that the person is pretentious or "trying too hard." It is frequently used to describe mannerisms, speech patterns, or artistic styles that feel forced, shallow, or artificial.
"affected" in conversation
Discussing a mutual acquaintance
Did you catch his performance at the gala?
Did you catch his performance at the gala?
I did. His posh accent felt so affected.
I did. His posh accent felt so affected.
Used to describe a person's behavior that feels like a put-on performance.
Critiquing a novel
I couldn't finish the book.
I couldn't finish the book.
Why not?
Why not?
The prose was just too affected for my taste.
The prose was just too affected for my taste.
Used to describe a writing style that feels overly ornate or unnatural.
"affected" in a sentence
She spoke with an affected air of superiority.
She spoke with an affected air of superiority.
His affected politeness made everyone in the room feel uncomfortable.
His affected politeness made everyone in the room feel uncomfortable.
The poet's early work is often criticized for its affected sentimentality and lack of genuine emotion.
The poet's early work is often criticized for its affected sentimentality and lack of genuine emotion.
