effect / impact
Loading your saved state.
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
Folge and Auswirkung refer to a result that arises from an event or a situation. Folge classifies this result more strongly as a consequence of the cause. Auswirkung emphasizes more how the cause concretely affects people, things, or situations.
Die Schließung hatte deutliche Auswirkungen auf den Arbeitsweg der Beschäftigten.
The closure had a significant impact on the employees' commutes.
Die Schließung hatte längere Fahrzeiten zur Folge.
The closure resulted in longer travel times.
