impact

/ˈɪmpækt/

"Impact" covers both physical collision and, far more often, the effect or influence that an event, decision, or person has on something. The right German equivalent depends on whether the context involves a literal force or abstract consequences.

1. Auswirkung

Standard translation for abstract use: the consequences or effects something has on a situation, group, or system (often used in the plural).

The new regulations had a significant impact on small businesses.
Die neuen Vorschriften hatten erhebliche Auswirkungen auf kleine Unternehmen.
We need to assess the impact of the price increase before making a final decision.
Wir müssen die Auswirkungen der Preiserhöhung bewerten, bevor wir eine endgültige Entscheidung treffen.
Climate change is having a measurable impact on global food production.
Der Klimawandel hat messbare Auswirkungen auf die weltweite Nahrungsmittelproduktion.

2. Aufprall · physical

For the physical shock or collision of two bodies (e.g. in accidents, projectile strikes, or meteorite impacts).

The car's airbags deployed on impact.
Die Airbags des Wagens lösten beim Aufprall aus.
The force of the impact shattered the windshield completely.
Die Wucht des Aufpralls zerstörte die Windschutzscheibe vollständig.

3. Einfluss

When "impact" emphasises the lasting, shaping force of a person or idea: less a situational consequence than an enduring mark.

Her early research had a profound impact on the entire field of molecular biology.
Ihre frühe Forschung hatte einen tiefgreifenden Einfluss auf die gesamte Molekularbiologie.
Good teachers can have an impact on their students that lasts a lifetime.
Gute Lehrerinnen und Lehrer können einen Einfluss auf ihre Schüler haben, der ein Leben lang anhält.

Notes

"Impact" is frequently borrowed into German unchanged, especially in startup, NGO, and investment contexts ("Impact-Investing", "Social Impact"). The verb "to impact" is widespread in English ("This will impact our results") but considered corporate jargon even by native speakers. German renders this with phrases like "sich auswirken auf" or "beeinflussen": there is no direct verbal calque.

Synonyms

effect influence consequence repercussion bearing

Related phrases

aftermath outcome collision shock impact assessment environmental impact