Impact Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฅ
impact
[หษชmpakt ]
Definitions
noun
The action of one object coming forcibly into contact with another. The effect or influence of one person, thing, or action, on another.
Synonyms
consequence, effect, influence, outcome, result.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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impact |
Used to describe a strong or significant influence or effect on something. Often used in more serious or formal contexts.
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effect |
Describes a change which is a result or consequence of an action or other cause. It is more general and can be used in both scientific and everyday contexts.
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influence |
Indicates the power to have an important effect on someone or something. It often suggests a subtle or not immediately obvious control or impact.
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consequence |
Refers to a result or effect of an action or condition, usually with a negative or neutral connotation. Often implies some level of inevitability or seriousness.
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result |
Describes something that happens or exists because of something else. It is quite similar to 'effect' but is often used in more situational or immediate contexts.
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outcome |
Refers to the final result of a process, meeting, or activity. It is often used in contexts like research, experiments, or any scenario where a result is expected.
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Examples of usage
- The asteroid had a huge impact when it collided with Earth.
- The new policy had a positive impact on the company's profits.
- His speech had a strong impact on the audience.
- The impact of climate change is becoming more evident.
- The impact of the pandemic on the economy cannot be underestimated.
verb
Have a strong effect on someone or something.
Synonyms
affect, change, influence, modify, transform.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
impact |
Use this word when talking about a strong and often sudden effect on something or someone. It is often used in serious or significant situations.
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affect |
Use this word when describing how something changes or influences the state or condition of something else. It generally describes a more subtle or ongoing change.
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influence |
Use this word to describe the ability to affect decisions, actions, or thinking, often in a subtle or indirect way.
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change |
Use this word when referring to making something different, altering its state or condition fundamentally. It is a general term that can apply to a wide range of scenarios.
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modify |
Use this word when talking about making small changes to something, often to improve it or make it more suitable.
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transform |
Use this word when describing a complete or major change in someone or something, often leading to improvement.
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Examples of usage
- The new law will impact businesses across the country.
- The decision to cut funding will impact the research project.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, impact refers to the forceful contact between two bodies, influencing their motion and energy transfer.
- Scientists study impact in various fields, including mechanics, to understand collisions and their effects on objects.
Environmental Studies
- The term 'impact' is commonly used to assess how human activities like pollution affect the environment.
- Studies examine the impact of climate change on ecosystems, indicating significant shifts in habitats and species.
Psychology
- Impact has a psychological dimension, influencing how events or experiences can change a personโs thoughts or feelings.
- Traumatic experiences, for instance, have a lasting impact on mental health and emotional well-being.
Pop Culture
- The word is frequently used in films and literature, often to describe life-changing events or moments.
- In recent years, documentaries and social movements emphasize the impact of actions on societies and cultures.
Origin of 'impact'
Main points about word origin
- The word derives from the Latin 'impactus,' meaning 'to strike against,' highlighting physical force.
- It entered the English language in the late 14th century, originally referring to the pressing together of two things.
The word 'impact' originated from the Latin word 'impactus', which comes from the verb 'impingere' meaning 'to push against'. The use of 'impact' in English dates back to the 16th century, originally referring to the action of one body colliding with another. Over time, the word evolved to also encompass the broader concept of influence or effect on something. Today, 'impact' is commonly used in various contexts to describe a significant effect or influence.
See also: impacted, impactful, impactfully, impacts.