effect / impact
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effect / impact
The result, effect, or consequence that an action, event, or situation has on something or someone. Very often used in the plural.
Die Dürre hatte verheerende Auswirkungen auf die Ernte.
The drought had devastating effects on the harvest.
The word is made up of 'aus' (out of/from) and 'Wirkung' (effect). It describes the effect that 'works' outward from an action or event.
Welche Auswirkungen hat die neue Software auf unsere Arbeit?
What effects does the new software have on our work?
'Auswirkung' (effect/impact) is almost always used with the preposition 'auf' (on) and the accusative to name the target of the effect. The structure is: Auswirkung auf + accusative.
Das Wetter hat direkte Auswirkungen auf meine Laune.
The weather has direct effects on my mood.
'Auswirkung' (effect/impact) is often combined with adjectives that evaluate the effect. Typical examples are: positive/negative, direct/indirect, long-term, or serious effects.
Die Entscheidung hatte langfristige Auswirkungen für die ganze Familie.
The decision had long-term effects for the whole family.
The word 'Auswirkung' (effect/impact) is used especially in written language, in the news, in reports, and in more formal conversations. It sounds neutral and factual.
Der Bericht analysiert die wirtschaftlichen Auswirkungen der Krise.
The report analyzes the economic effects of the crisis.
consequence / episode
'die Folge' and 'die Auswirkung' are very close in meaning. Both describe what results from an action, event, or situation. 'Folge' often means the consequence after a specific event. 'Auswirkung' puts more emphasis on how something affects people, things, or a situation. 'Auswirkung' is very often used in the plural, for example 'die Auswirkungen des Klimawandels' (the effects of climate change). The words can be confused because both are about cause and result. As a guide: 'Folge' works well for a concrete result, while 'Auswirkung' is used for effects on a wider area.
Welche Auswirkungen hat die neue Regel auf unsere Arbeit?
What effects does the new rule have on our work?
Eine direkte Folge des Fehlers war, dass der Termin verschoben wurde.
A direct consequence of the mistake was that the appointment was postponed.