impact

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'impact' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used as a noun or a verb, and is often used to describe the consequences or effect of an event, decision, or other occurrence. For example, "The new legislation had a major impact on the local economy, creating jobs and increasing tax revenue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We are very aware of the impact it will have on those involved and we are doing all we can to provide our support to those injured and their families.

The Guardian

"We are concerned that this development may have an increasingly negative impact on the threat situation in Norway".

The New York Times

He acknowledged that the no campaign needed to appeal to the heart as well as the head but argued the big question is what impact separation would have on family finances and whether Scottish people would be able to afford the NHS and pensions.

The Guardian

Families were asked to see what impact this had on their behaviour in the home and whether it changed the way they spent their time and interacted.

The Guardian

They would hang a DSLR out of the window on a long exposure to get a night shot of the impact and the smoke cloud – when all the naked eye could see was black.

The Guardian - Opinion

But Smith's failure to make a major impact in Europe - the finest moment probably being the home-and-away defeat of Leeds United in 1992, later missing out on a Champions League final place by one point - led to the clamour for something new.

The Guardian - Sport

These are baby steps and will have minimal impact on the lives of low-wage workers.

The Guardian - Money

But it shows that if you enthuse people and put people first, you can really make an impact.

The Guardian

I wouldn't dismiss the psychological and political impact of Ian Paisley being, in his terms, kicked around for 40 years by the establishment and then seeing an opportunity to be the establishment and being unable to resist it".

The Guardian

But while rural dwellers in particular chafe at restrictions and heavy-handed enforcement – which has included forced abortions – many in cities are used to the policy and seem largely indifferent, or like the idea of increasing their families but worry about the financial impact.

The Guardian

A second way to reduce the impact of harriers on grouse – a method of forced migration known as brood management – proved more contentious.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "impact" as a verb, ensure correct usage. For example, "the policy will impact the budget".

Common error

Avoid using "impact" as a generic replacement for more precise verbs like "affect", "influence", or "change". Specify the nature and extent of the effect for clarity. For example, instead of "The decision will impact the project", use "The decision will delay the project" or "The decision will improve the project".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "impact" is as both a noun, denoting the effect or result of something, and a verb, meaning to have a strong effect on someone or something. Ludwig examples showcase its versatility in expressing influence or consequence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "impact" is a versatile word, functioning as both a noun and a verb, to describe a significant effect or influence. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. While highly common in news, business, and scientific domains, "impact" should be used precisely to avoid vagueness. Remember to consider alternatives like "effect" or "influence" for nuanced meanings. The examples provided by Ludwig show a wide range of applications, reinforcing its role in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

effect

A more general term for a result or consequence, lacking the forceful connotation of "impact".

influence

Focuses more on the power to affect someone or something, rather than the direct effect itself.

influence on

Specifies the target that is being affected.

affect

Functions as a verb indicating the action of influencing, rather than the noun form.

consequence

Highlights the result of an action, often implying a negative outcome.

outcome

Highlights the final result or effect of a process or event.

repercussion

Emphasizes the far-reaching and often unintended effects of an event or action.

implication

Suggests a more subtle and indirect effect or consequence.

ramification

Stresses the complex and branching consequences of an action or decision.

aftermath

Refers to the period following a significant event and its associated consequences.

FAQs

How can I use "impact" in a sentence?

"Impact" can be used as a noun, referring to the effect of something, or as a verb, meaning to have an effect on something. For example, "The storm had a significant impact on the coast" or "The new regulations will impact small businesses."

What are some synonyms for "impact"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "influence", "effect", "consequence", or "repercussion".

Is it correct to use "impact" as a verb?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to use "impact" as a verb. However, some people prefer using "affect" or "influence" as alternatives, particularly in formal writing. As Ludwig confirms, "impact" is perfectly acceptable.

What's the difference between "impact" and "effect"?

"Impact" often suggests a more forceful or significant influence than "effect". While both words refer to a result or consequence, "impact" implies a stronger, more direct influence. Ludwig can help you choose the best word for your context.