(c) affect, affect, affect, affected Both affect and effect are, in all cases, accented on the second syllable. Options (a), (b), (d) and (e) are eliminated as each contains a word wrongly accented. A reading of the sentences makes it clear that all the blanks require verbs rather than nouns. Effect(verb) means bring about a result Affect (verb) has two meanings: (i) have an effect on (ii) assume a false way With regard to meaning and context of the sentences, Options (a), (b), (d) and (e) are ruled out for each contains effect(ed)as one of the four words.