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affecting 1 of 3

Definition of affectingnext

affecting

2 of 3

verb (1)

present participle of affect

affecting

3 of 3

verb (2)

present participle of affect

Synonym Chooser

How is the word affecting distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of affecting are impressive, moving, pathetic, poignant, and touching. While all these words mean "having the power to produce deep emotion," affecting is close to moving but most often suggests pathos.

an affecting deathbed reunion

When might impressive be a better fit than affecting?

The synonyms impressive and affecting are sometimes interchangeable, but impressive implies compelling attention, admiration, wonder, or conviction.

an impressive list of achievements

When is it sensible to use moving instead of affecting?

Although the words moving and affecting have much in common, moving may apply to any strong emotional effect including thrilling, agitating, saddening, or calling forth pity or sympathy.

a moving appeal for contributions

When could pathetic be used to replace affecting?

While the synonyms pathetic and affecting are close in meaning, pathetic implies moving to pity or sometimes contempt.

pathetic attempts to justify misconduct

When is poignant a more appropriate choice than affecting?

The meanings of poignant and affecting largely overlap; however, poignant applies to what keenly or sharply affects one's sensitivities.

a poignant documentary on the homeless

When would touching be a good substitute for affecting?

In some situations, the words touching and affecting are roughly equivalent. However, touching implies arousing tenderness or compassion.

the touching innocence in a child's eyes

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of affecting
Adjective
An absolute charmer, the film is an affecting look at the human-avian bond, with all its mysteries, warmth and ungainly practicalities. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 13 Sep. 2025 Among the most affecting discoveries were journals written not just by Octavia but also by her mother. Okla Jones, Essence, 2 Sep. 2025
Verb
Several new state laws affecting education take effect this month, highlighting the rights of immigrant students and the growth of artificial intelligence in schools. Hope Moses, Chicago Tribune, 10 Jan. 2026 However, one Ravens veteran confirmed that other players had urged Jackson to be more vocal with Ravens decision-makers about matters affecting the team. Jeff Zrebiec, New York Times, 10 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for affecting
Recent Examples of Synonyms for affecting
Adjective
  • That increase has come with a financial strain and emotional stress for families across the country and in North Carolina.
    Briah Lumpkins, Charlotte Observer, 12 Jan. 2026
  • Her relationship with Kerr hits several bumps, giving Blunt the chance to showcase her emotional range in tense scenes.
    Eric Andersson, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • This impressive deal only applies to the six-piece set, which includes five compression packing cubes and one drawstring bag in select colors.
    Emily Belfiore, Travel + Leisure, 9 Jan. 2026
  • Joseph’s most recent work in Denver, however, happens to be some of the most impressive as the unit ranked second in total defense, third in scoring and in the top-ten against both the run and pass.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 9 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Among the more moving cases that Blair describes are those of people who in life were vulnerable and powerless but in death were considered formidable threats.
    Rivka Galchen, New Yorker, 7 Jan. 2026
  • The offense is considered a non-moving violation with no license points, though vehicles can be towed in some cases.
    Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 31 Dec. 2025
Adjective
  • Fellow chef and close friend Carla Hall wrote a touching tribute to Scott on Instagram, calling her a force and a trailblazer.
    Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 8 Jan. 2026
  • Refrain from touching radios, ignition systems, or any metal parts connected to the vehicle's exterior.
    Brandi D. Addison, Oklahoman, 8 Jan. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Affecting.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/affecting. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on affecting

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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