Another Word for Impact: 18 Synonyms with Examples
Impact means a strong effect or influence, or the force of one thing hitting another; as a verb it means to affect. Many editors prefer "affect" or "effect" in formal writing, so swapping it often improves a sentence.
As a noun: a strong effect or influence
As a noun: the force of a collision
- collision
- crash
- force
- blow
- shock
- bump
As a verb: to have an effect on
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How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- effect
- The neutral standard; it can be large or small, good or bad.
- influence
- A gradual or indirect effect, often on people's views or behaviour.
- consequence
- A result that follows from an action, often an unwanted one.
- repercussion
- A serious, usually negative consequence that spreads beyond the first event.
- affect
- The plainest verb swap, and preferred by many style guides.
- shape
- To influence how something develops over time.
Example sentences
- effect: The new law had little effect on the number of accidents.
- influence: Her grandmother had a strong influence on her taste in music.
- consequence: Skipping breakfast had one clear consequence: he was hungry by ten.
- repercussion: The factory closure had repercussions for every shop in the town.
- affect: The storm affected train services across the region.
- shape: Childhood experiences shape the way we handle stress as adults.
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “impact”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: touch
noun: wallop, impingement, encroachment
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “impact”?
The most useful alternatives are “effect”, “influence”, “consequence”, “impression”, “result”. For the main sense (a strong effect or influence), “effect” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “effect” and “influence”?
effect: The neutral standard; it can be large or small, good or bad. influence: A gradual or indirect effect, often on people's views or behaviour.