impact
IM-pakt
/ˈɪmpækt/
The action of one object coming into forcible contact with another; a marked effect or influence.
In CSR, 'impact' is usually measured as 'social impact' or 'environmental impact'—the tangible change a company causes in the world.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'impingere', meaning 'to drive into' or 'to strike against.' It originally described physical collisions, like a hammer hitting a nail, before becoming a metaphor for influence.
Word relationships
- effect: A change which is a result or consequence of an action or other cause.
- influence: The capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.
- insignificance: The quality of being too small or unimportant to be worth consideration.
- negligibility: The quality of being so small or unimportant as to be not worth considering.
Commonly confused with
- affect: Affect is usually the verb (to change something); impact is usually the noun (the change itself).
Word family
- impactful (adjective): Having a major impact or effect.
- impacted (verb (past)): Strongly affected by something.
Collocations
- social impact
- environmental impact
- positive impact
- measure impact
Example sentences
- "Our goal is to create a positive social impact that lasts long after our project is finished." The company's annual report focused on their work in local schools.
- "The environmental impact of the new dam was much greater than the initial studies had predicted." A scientist explains the result of a new policy on the local river.
Memory hook
Think of an 'Impact' crater from a meteor. It leaves a permanent, visible mark on the surface. Leaving a mark on the world.
When not to use
Avoid using 'impact' as a verb (e.g., 'this will impact the budget') in very formal writing; some traditionalists prefer 'affect.'
Fun facts
- 'Impact investing' refers to investments made with the intention to generate positive, measurable social and environmental impact alongside a financial return.
Related words
Explore more words
make an impression, imprint, footprint, consequence, Interact, clash
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