make a big impact

USAGE SUMMARY

"make a big impact" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means to have a significant or influential effect on something or someone. Example: The charity's campaign to provide clean water to rural communities in Africa made a big impact on the lives of thousands of people.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We're there to make a big impact".

Independent

These diet and lifestyle interventions can make a big impact.

Harvard University

How else could a small group make a big impact?

The New Yorker

You should make a big impact just with your dress.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In Sweden, tinkering could make a big impact.

The Guardian - Sport

"I think it will make a big impact," she says.

Nature

"I want to make a big impact with the national team going forward," he said.

The New York Times

"I always wanted to do something with my life, make a big impact," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

"I guess I did make a big impact, if they booed me like that," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

You can make a big impact by only buying what you're actually going to eat".

The New York Times

If we refocus efforts on education it will make a big impact".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to "make a big impact", focus on actions that create lasting value and resonate with your target audience. Ensure your message is clear, concise, and compelling to maximize its effect.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the potential impact of your actions. Overpromising can lead to disappointment and erode credibility. Ground your claims in realistic assessments and verifiable outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a big impact" functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of creating a substantial or noticeable effect. Ludwig examples confirm its use in various contexts to highlight the significance of an action or event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

14%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make a big impact" is a versatile and commonly used expression that signifies creating a substantial or noticeable effect. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English. Analysis of various sources reveals its frequent use in news media, academic writing, and scientific publications, highlighting its broad applicability. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the claimed impact is realistic and verifiable to maintain credibility. Consider alternatives like ""have a significant effect"" or "leave a lasting impression" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have a significant effect

Changes the verb from "make" to "have" and uses "effect" instead of "impact", maintaining a similar level of formality and meaning.

leave a lasting impression

Focuses on the enduring nature of the impact, suggesting a memorable or long-term effect.

exert a strong influence

Emphasizes the power or control exerted to create an impact, suitable for situations involving authority or persuasion.

make a substantial difference

Highlights the positive change or improvement resulting from the impact, often used in contexts related to social good or problem-solving.

have a marked effect

Uses "marked" to underscore that the change is easily noticeable and prominent.

create a strong impression

Similar to leaving a lasting impression, but focuses on the immediate creation of the impression.

make a noticeable contribution

Emphasizes the contribution aspect, suggesting the impact is in the form of assistance or support.

leave its mark

Figurative expression indicating a lasting or indelible effect.

have repercussions

Indicates the impact is significant enough to cause widespread effects.

change the game

Suggests that the action revolutionizes or fundamentally alters a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "make a big impact" in a sentence?

You can use "make a big impact" to describe actions or initiatives that have a significant effect. For instance, "Investing in renewable energy can "have a significant effect" on reducing carbon emissions".

What are some alternatives to "make a big impact"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "have a substantial influence", "leave a lasting impression", or "make a substantial difference".

Is it better to say "make a big impact" or "have a big impact"?

Both "make a big impact" and "have a big impact" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice often depends on stylistic preference, but "make a big impact" is slightly more common.

Can small actions "make a big impact"?

Yes, small actions can collectively "make a big impact". This is often emphasized in discussions about sustainability and social change, where incremental efforts contribute to larger outcomes.