B1noun1K

Impact

UK /["/ˈɪmpækt/"]/US /["/ˈɪmpækt/"]/

Definition

the powerful effect that something has on somebody/something

In simple words: The strong effect or change that something has on something else.

Examples

The impact of the new policy was felt immediately across the company.
Scientists are studying the impact of climate change on wildlife.
The impact of the car crash was severe, resulting in significant damage.
She felt a great impact when she received the news about her promotion.
His speech had a positive impact on the audience, inspiring them to take action.
The impact of the sound was so loud that it startled everyone in the room.
In physics, impact refers to the collision of two bodies.

Usage notes

Use 'impact' when describing the effect of one thing on another. It's suitable for both spoken and written contexts, but avoid using it in highly formal situations like academic papers. In casual conversation, synonyms like 'effect' might be more appropriate.

Grammar pattern

impact + object

Memory hint

Think of a big 'impact' like a meteor hitting Earth, causing a huge change.

Collocations

big
considerable
dramatic
achieve
create
exert
under the impact of
impact on
impact upon
full
initial
asteroid
take
feel
absorb
occur
knock somebody/something…
speed
velocity
crater
on impact
the moment, point, time, etc. of impact

Synonyms

effect
influence
consequence
impression
result

Antonyms

insignificance
ineffectiveness

Common mistakes

Confused with 'effect' — remember that 'impact' often implies a stronger influence.
Using 'impact' as a verb incorrectly, such as 'impacting on' instead of 'impacting'.
Confusing the noun and verb forms — ensure the context matches the form used.