What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
impact
Example
The new policy had a significant impact on the company's profits. [impact: noun]
Example
The car crash impacted the front bumper and caused damage. [impacted: past tense verb]
Example
The movie had a profound impact on the audience, leaving them in tears. [impact: noun]
influence
Example
Her parents' values and beliefs had a strong influence on her upbringing. [influence: noun]
Example
The CEO's leadership style influenced the company's culture and success. [influenced: past tense verb]
Example
The artist was influenced by the works of Picasso and Dali. [influenced: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Influence is more commonly used than impact in everyday language. Influence is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while impact is more specific and often used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between impact and influence?
While impact is typically associated with a formal or technical tone, influence is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in a wider range of situations.
