have a far-reaching effect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have a far-reaching effect" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the significant and widespread impact of an action, decision, or event. Example: "The new policy is expected to have a far-reaching effect on the economy, influencing various sectors and communities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

This grievance was to have a far-reaching effect.

The Guardian

Mr. Blair's decision could have a far-reaching effect on Britain's integration with Europe and on Mr. Blair's political career.

The New York Times

The move to a so-called wealth-equalized formula would have a far-reaching effect on school budgets in the state's 615 districts at a time when increases in special education enrollments are outpacing total enrollment growth in many districts.

The New York Times

The rates on government bonds have a far-reaching effect on national economies, because they set a benchmark for the rates that businesses and consumer pay for bank loans.

The New York Times

The outcome of this latest dispute could have a far-reaching effect on the way the campaign in New York is played out over the next two months, depending on what the Campaign Finance Board does, as well as on any future attempts by governments to enact campaign finance laws.

The New York Times

Our relationships have a far-reaching effect in the world.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Constantine's conversion to Christianity had a far-reaching effect.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Working Group's coverage of what happened in Billings had a far-reaching effect.

The Guardian - Opinion

Her energetic involvement had a far-reaching effect on the Library and the millions of people it serves.

The New York Times

The rapid pace of social and technological innovation has had a far-reaching effect on all aspects of life, including the workplace.

The Guardian

In the end, the restaurateur's most lasting contribution to the world may end up being not an exalted snobbishness but a single, accidental culinary innovation that has had a far-reaching effect on the American culinary repertoire.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "have a far-reaching effect", ensure the context clearly identifies what is being affected and the scope of the impact. Providing specific examples strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "have a far-reaching effect" when the actual impact is limited or localized. Overusing the phrase can diminish its credibility. Be realistic about the consequences you're describing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have a far-reaching effect" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to predicate the impact or consequence of an action, decision, or event. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it signifies a broad and significant influence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

23%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "have a far-reaching effect" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe something with a broad and significant impact. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is frequently found in news, media, business, and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, ensure clarity about what is affected and the scope of the impact. Alternatives like "have a widespread impact" or "have significant consequences" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Be mindful of overstating the actual impact to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have a widespread impact

Focuses on the breadth of the effect, emphasizing how many areas are affected.

have significant consequences

Highlights the importance and severity of the results or outcomes.

exert a considerable influence

Emphasizes the power to change or affect something.

leave a lasting impression

Highlights the long-term nature of the effect.

produce a profound change

Stresses the depth and fundamental nature of the alteration.

generate extensive ramifications

Focuses on the complex and branching nature of the consequences.

create a ripple effect

Implies a cascading series of consequences, starting from a single point.

have extensive repercussions

Highlights the negative consequences or outcomes.

bring about sweeping changes

Indicates large-scale and comprehensive alterations.

make a substantial difference

Emphasizes the positive and meaningful impact.

FAQs

How can I use "have a far-reaching effect" in a sentence?

You can use "have a far-reaching effect" to describe something with a widespread and significant impact. For instance, "The new environmental policy will "have a far-reaching effect" on the region's ecosystem".

What are some alternatives to "have a far-reaching effect"?

Alternatives include "have a widespread impact", "have significant consequences", or "exert a considerable influence". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "have a far-reaching effect" or "have a significant effect"?

Both phrases are correct, but ""have a far-reaching effect"" suggests a broader and more extensive impact than "have a significant effect". The choice depends on the degree of impact you wish to emphasize.

What's the difference between "have a far-reaching effect" and "create a ripple effect"?

"Have a far-reaching effect" describes a broad impact, while "create a ripple effect" implies a cascading series of consequences stemming from an initial action.