a devastating impact

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a devastating impact" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant and harmful effect of an event or action. Example: "The hurricane had a devastating impact on the coastal communities, leaving many without homes or resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

It has a devastating impact".

The New York Times - Science

The wilt has a devastating impact.

Cornell University

Cuts are having a devastating impact.

The Guardian

It could have a devastating impact then".

The Guardian

"This has had a devastating impact on these people".

The Guardian - Money

Slavery, of course, has a devastating impact on individual victims.

The Guardian

Repeal would have a devastating impact on public charities".

The New York Times

Flooding has a devastating impact on property and possessions.

The Guardian

A small number of families can have a devastating impact.

Independent

The crisis is having a devastating impact on strawberry growers.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Suspensions can have a devastating impact on students.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a devastating impact", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being affected and the nature of the devastation. Be specific about the consequences to enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a devastating impact" to describe minor inconveniences or situations that do not genuinely involve significant damage or suffering. Overusing the phrase diminishes its true meaning and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a devastating impact" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness. It is used to describe the severe negative consequences or effects of a particular event, situation, or action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a devastating impact" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression used to describe severely negative consequences, as verified by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in news and media, scientific, and formal business contexts, it serves to emphasize the magnitude of the negative effects of an event or action. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse and ensure the described situation warrants such a strong term. Consider using alternatives like ""a catastrophic effect"" or ""a calamitous outcome"" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a catastrophic effect

Emphasizes the scale and completeness of the disaster, implying widespread destruction.

a calamitous outcome

Focuses on the disastrous results and long-term consequences of the event.

a ruinous consequence

Highlights the destructive nature and irreversible damage caused.

a crippling blow

Suggests a weakening or disabling effect on the affected entity.

a severe setback

Implies a significant delay or reversal in progress.

a terrible toll

Focuses on the suffering and loss resulting from the event.

a damaging repercussion

Highlights the far-reaching and negative consequences.

a grave consequence

Emphasizes the seriousness and potential for long-term harm.

a profound effect

Indicates a deep and significant influence, often with lasting implications.

a momentous change

Highlights the importance and transformational nature of the impact.

FAQs

How can I use "a devastating impact" in a sentence?

You can use "a devastating impact" to describe the severely negative consequences of an event or action. For example, "The economic crisis had "a devastating impact" on small businesses."

What are some alternatives to "a devastating impact"?

Alternatives include "a catastrophic effect", "a calamitous outcome", or "a ruinous consequence", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "a devastating impact"?

No, it is not always appropriate. This phrase should be reserved for situations where the impact is genuinely severe and destructive. Overusing it can weaken its effect. Consider using milder terms for less serious situations.

What's the difference between "a devastating impact" and "a significant impact"?

"A significant impact" implies a notable effect, while "a devastating impact" implies a severely damaging or destructive effect. The latter suggests much graver consequences.