Impact
/ˈɪmpækt/
Definitions
3 meaningsThe force exerted by a collision; a forceful or dramatic effect.
/ˈɪmpækt/
The action of one object hitting another.
The impact of the ball with the bat was incredibly loud.
💡 Simply: It's like when two things bump into each other – a car crash, a soccer ball hitting the goalpost, or even just a sudden thought that hits you. It’s about that moment of contact.
👶 For kids: When something bumps or crashes into something else!
More Examples
The environmental impact of the factory was significant.
The company is trying to measure the social impact of its actions.
How It's Used
"The impact of the meteor created a large crater."
"The car crash caused a strong impact."
A marked effect or influence.
/ˈɪmpækt/
A significant effect or influence.
The teacher's words had a profound impact on the student.
💡 Simply: Imagine a big event or idea that changes things. It's about how something affects other things, like the impact of a new law on people's lives, or the impact of a good book on your mood.
👶 For kids: How something changes things!
More Examples
The book's impact on the literary world was undeniable.
The decision had a negative impact on the company's finances.
How It's Used
"The new marketing campaign had a positive impact on sales."
"The social impact of technology is constantly evolving."
To have an effect or influence on someone or something.
/ɪmˈpækt/
To have a significant effect on someone or something.
The storm impacted the city's power supply.
💡 Simply: It's like when something causes a change. Imagine a domino effect: one falls and then many others follow. That's the idea of something impacting something else.
👶 For kids: To change something or make a difference!
More Examples
The new policy is expected to impact the economy significantly.
His words impacted her deeply.
How It's Used
"The new strategy will impact customer satisfaction."
"The scandal impacted the celebrity's career."
Idioms & expressions
make an impact
To have a noticeable effect or influence.
"The charity's campaign made a big impact on the community."
From Latin *impactus*, past participle of *impingere* 'to strike against'.
The word 'impact' has been used since the 17th century, initially as a noun related to physical contact.
Memory tip
Imagine a crash! Impact is the moment two things hit.
Word Origin
"to strike against"