Final answer:
The correct word to complete the sentence "Cloudy weather _______ Tom's mood" is "affects". This is because the weather is having an influence on Tom's mood. It's essential to understand the difference between 'affect' as a verb and 'effect' as a noun to use them correctly in sentences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The word that best completes the sentence "Cloudy weather _______ Tom's mood" is "affects". In this sentence, "affects" refers to the impact that the cloudy weather has on Tom's mood. This use of affect is as a verb, meaning to influence or make a difference to. The word "effects" is a noun that refers to the result of a change. Within the context of the sentence provided, the cloudy weather is having an influence on Tom's mood, making "affects" the correct choice.
In different contexts, writers develop mood through their choice of words. For instance, describing a cloudy day in a town of iron-works as "muddy, flat, immovable" contributes to a gloomy, oppressive atmosphere. The impact of weather on setting and mood in literature is profound as it can effect or bring about various emotional responses from characters and readers.
It's important to differentiate between "affect" and "effect" as their incorrect usage can change the meaning of a sentence dramatically. "Affect" is typically used as a verb, while "effect" as a noun. In the practice sentences provided, they correctly exemplify that this show has a depressing affect (influence) and also inquire about how the elections will effect (bring about a change/result) in the neighborhood.