Words / B1

IMP-akt/ˈɪmpækt/

Impact as a noun is a strong effect: a big impact on sales. Have an impact on is the usual verb pattern. Effect is more general; affect is the verb. As a verb, impact is common in news (the storm impacted travel) but some teachers prefer affect. Impact can also be a physical hit.

Meaning

A strong effect on someone or something.

Examples

• “The new law had a big impact on small shops.”
• “The speech had a real impact on the audience.”
• “What impact will this have on prices?”

Good to know

have an impact on. Verb teachers often prefer: affect. General noun: effect.

Near in meaning

effect

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