impact
- 01 B1 Intermediate
n.the powerful effect that something has on a person, situation, or place.
n.the significant or powerful influence or effect of an action, event, or person on another entity.
Simple“The new recycling program had a positive impact on the local environment.”
In context“Economists are still assessing the long-term impact of the trade agreement on small-scale manufacturing sectors across the region.”
UsageOften used with the preposition 'on' when functioning as a noun.
Teacher's tipWhile common in business and academic contexts, some traditionalists prefer 'affect' or 'influence' over the verb form of 'impact'.
PitfallThe new law will impact on the economy. The new law will impact the economy.When using 'impact' as a verb, do not use the preposition 'on'. Use 'on' only when 'impact' is a noun.
Synonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.the act of one object hitting another with great force.
n.the physical striking of one body against another; a high-force collision.
Simple“The car was built to protect the passengers in the event of an impact.”
In context“The meteor's impact created a crater several miles wide, sending debris high into the atmosphere.”
UsageOften used as an uncountable noun to describe the force itself.
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to have a strong effect on someone or something.
v.to have a significant or strong influence or effect on a situation or person.
Simple“The budget cuts will heavily impact the school's music program.”
In context“The rising cost of raw materials is expected to negatively impact the company's profit margins for the third quarter.”
UsageTransitive verb; does not take the preposition 'on'.
- 04 C1 Advanced
v.to be pushed or wedged firmly into something so it cannot move.
v.to be firmly packed or wedged into a space; frequently used in medical contexts regarding teeth or blockages.
Simple“The dentist said my wisdom tooth is impacted and needs to be removed.”
In context“The surgeon identified an impacted gallstone that was causing significant inflammation in the surrounding tissue.”
UsageOften used in the passive voice or as a past participle adjective.
Teacher's tipIn medicine, this most commonly refers to wisdom teeth that cannot grow in properly.
Usage impact on people · impact of new · impacts across health