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impact

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verb

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word impact different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of impact are collision, concussion, and shock. While all these words mean "a forceful, even violent contact between two or more things," impact may be used to imply contact between two things, at least one of which is impelled toward the other.

the glass shattered on impact with the floor

When is it sensible to use collision instead of impact?

The meanings of collision and impact largely overlap; however, collision implies the coming together of two or more things with such force that both or all are damaged or their progress is severely impeded.

the collision damaged the vehicle

In what contexts can concussion take the place of impact?

In some situations, the words concussion and impact are roughly equivalent. However, concussion when not in technical use, often suggests the shattering, disrupting, or weakening effects of a collision, explosion, or blow.

bystanders felt the concussion of the blast

When could shock be used to replace impact?

The synonyms shock and impact are sometimes interchangeable, but shock often denotes the effect produced by a collision and carries the suggestion of something that strikes or hits with force.

the shock of falling rocks

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of impact
Noun
Here are the most common lawn weeds that pop up in fall and how to minimize their impact on your grass. Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Oct. 2025 The endeavor has had a far-reaching impact on biology, medicine and many other fields. Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 4 Oct. 2025
Verb
Instead, Nicole Westmoreland emotionally highlighted positive ways Diddy impacted the community and inspired others to pursue their dreams. Lauryn Overhultz , Tracy Wright , Maria Paronich , Kirill Clark, FOXNews.com, 3 Oct. 2025 Charitable initiatives that positively impact our youth? Essence, 3 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for impact
Recent Examples of Synonyms for impact
Noun
  • LogoPowered byScale logo As the federal government shutdown has dragged into its seventh day, questions remain around how long-lasting the effects of service suspensions and funding cuts could be.
    Miranda Jeyaretnam, Time, 8 Oct. 2025
  • Tropical storm conditions are possible in portions of the northern Leeward Islands late Thursday and Friday, where Tropical Storm Watches are in effect.
    MIAMI HERALD HURRICANE BOT, Miami Herald, 8 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Delta noted that a member of the cabin crew was injured, with ABC News detailing that they were hospitalized with a minor knee injury from the collision.
    Clare Fisher, PEOPLE, 2 Oct. 2025
  • Some reports suggested that a wing on one of the aircraft had detached due to the collision.
    Washington Examiner Staff, The Washington Examiner, 2 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • There’s no denying the cost-effectiveness of investing in a high-quality luggage set, so this seasonal sale is the time to score the Coolife Luggage 4-piece Set while bags are only $34 apiece.
    Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 6 Oct. 2025
  • Young children have to use spacers, holding chambers that allow the patient to breathe in the medication slowly so more of it reaches the lungs, and a spacer would hinder a dry-powder inhaler’s effectiveness.
    Jen Christensen, CNN Money, 6 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Soil acidity can influence which colorful plant species will thrive in a garden.
    Paul Cappiello, Louisville Courier Journal, 3 Oct. 2025
  • The lawsuit alleges that LLFO’s decision to purchase the Wave last year for what was then a record price in the National Women’s Soccer League was largely influenced by Ellis’ role at the club.
    Melanie Anzidei, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Létrange first bumped into Girbaud in 2002 while crossing Mexico City in his Land Rover.
    Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2025
  • If the Senators are committed to Giroux in a third-line role, Amadio could always be bumped to a fourth-line spot to the right of Lars Eller and Nick Cousins.
    Julian McKenzie, New York Times, 7 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The left-back is left rooted, looking up as Rodon rises.
    Beren Cross, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2025
  • If planted too deep, the tree won't root into the soil as well and is more prone to rot.
    Viveka Neveln, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • When the initial wave of shock wore off this morning that Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson are touring as Rush next year, most fans turned their attention to who will be taking on the absurdly difficult task of replacing the late Neil Peart behind the kit.
    Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 6 Oct. 2025
  • Friends reacted in shock to the audacity of the man.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 6 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Ellison clearly understands the power and significance of elevating certain stories over others.
    Alison Herman, Variety, 7 Oct. 2025
  • Join us as Regina demystifies the journey to holistic health, emphasizing the significance of faith and the fostering of genuine connections.
    Zac Ntim, Deadline, 6 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Impact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/impact. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.

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