How to Say "effect" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “effect” is “efecto” — use 'efecto' when referring to the direct result or consequence of something, especially in a medical or scientific context, or when talking about the intended outcome of an action..
efecto
eh-FEK-toh/eˈfekto/

Examples
La lluvia tuvo un efecto positivo en las cosechas.
The rain had a positive effect on the crops.
La medicina ya hizo efecto en mí.
The medicine already had an effect on me.
El aumento de precios es un efecto de la escasez.
The price increase is a result of the shortage.
Using 'Efecto' in Phrases
A very common phrase is 'hacer efecto' (to take effect/to work), used often with medicine or advice.
Confusing 'Efecto' and 'Afecto'
Mistake: “Using 'afecto' when you mean 'effect'.”
Correction: 'Afecto' means affection or fondness. 'Efecto' is the consequence or result. 'El clima me afectó' (The weather affected me).
impacto
/eem-PAHK-toh//imˈpakto/

Examples
El descubrimiento tuvo un gran impacto en la comunidad científica.
The discovery had a great impact on the scientific community.
La campaña de marketing tuvo un impacto enorme en las ventas.
The marketing campaign had an enormous impact on sales.
El impacto ambiental del proyecto es nuestra mayor preocupación.
The environmental impact of the project is our biggest concern.
¿Cuál fue el impacto de la crisis económica en la región?
What was the impact of the economic crisis in the region?
Always Masculine
Remember that 'impacto' is always a masculine noun, so you must use 'el' or 'un' before it.
Using 'impacto' as a verb
Mistake: “La noticia me impacto mucho.”
Correction: La noticia me impactó mucho. (Use the correct verb form: 'impactar'.)
Efecto vs. Impacto
Related Translations
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