make impact

USAGE SUMMARY

Sentence The phrase "make impact" is correct and usable in written English and can be used to talk about having a significant or noticeable effect.
For example, "The speaker's words had a profound impact on the audience, making them rethink their views."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

At one point, the judge ruled that victims could not observe the proceedings if they wanted to make impact statements in the event of a guilty verdict.

The Guardian

Perhaps most interestingly, although feminism was starting to be part of intellectual discourse, it had yet to make impact on everyday life.

The Guardian

"Being able to time the hit the right way, and the leverage you've got to have once you make impact so the other player goes back, and not you".

The New York Times - Sports

Al-Jazeera America – keen to make impact in the US market – follows the lead of the other news channels and vamps for 20 minutes or more until the president's press conference begins.

The Guardian

But in a big machine where I'm steadily going up this ladder trying to express my views or make impact and not being able to -- I have no interest in that.

The New York Times

"It's difficult to make impact".

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Kennard makes impact on defense.

Los Angeles Times

Albert Pujols is still making impact for the Angels.

Los Angeles Times

We've got to make an impact".

The New York Times

But Mrs Museveni could make an impact.

The Economist

"Our goal is to make an impact.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to "make impact", specify the area or audience you intend to affect to provide clarity and context. For example, "make impact on society" or "make impact in the industry".

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the potential of an action to "make impact" on an overly broad or unrealistic scale. Focus on achievable and measurable outcomes to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make impact" functions as a verb phrase, where "make" is the main verb and "impact" is the noun acting as the object. According to Ludwig, it is used to describe the act of creating a significant or noticeable effect. It is often used in contexts where the intention is to influence or change something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make impact" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression to describe creating a significant or noticeable effect. According to Ludwig, it's considered neutral in register, leaning towards professional, and commonly appears in news, science, and business contexts. While many alternative phrases exist, such as ""make a difference"" or ""have an effect"", "make impact" specifically conveys the intention or ability to influence a situation. It is important to avoid overstating the scope of the potential influence and specify the intended target for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Have an effect

This alternative uses simpler language, focusing on the presence of an effect rather than the magnitude.

Make a difference

This phrase emphasizes a positive change or improvement resulting from the action.

Exert influence

This suggests a more direct application of power or persuasion.

Leave a mark

This implies a lasting or memorable effect.

Have repercussions

This alternative highlights the consequences or aftereffects of an action.

Produce results

This focuses on the tangible outcomes or achievements.

Generate consequences

Similar to "have repercussions", but with a broader scope of potential outcomes.

Create ripples

Suggests a spreading or cascading effect from an initial action.

Bring about change

Focuses on initiating or facilitating a transformation.

Yield outcomes

Implies that something produces or generates a particular result or effect.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "make impact" in a sentence?

You can use "make impact" to describe creating a significant or noticeable effect. For example, "The new policy is expected to "have an effect" on the economy".

What are some alternatives to saying "make impact"?

Alternatives include "make a difference", "have an effect", or "exert influence", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it better to say "make an impact" or "have an impact"?

Both "make an impact" and "have an impact" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice often comes down to personal preference or stylistic considerations.

What's the difference between "make impact" and ""make a difference""?

"Make impact" generally refers to having a significant or noticeable effect, while ""make a difference"" specifically implies a positive change or improvement.