Inklingo

How to Say "effect" in Spanish

English → Spanish

efecto

eh-FEK-toh/eˈfekto/

nounA2general
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.
A single domino falls, knocking over a small flower pot.

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/

nounB1general
Choose 'impacto' when you want to emphasize a strong, significant, or far-reaching consequence, often used for social, economic, or environmental changes.
A small figure planting a tiny seed in the ground, which instantly grows into a huge, radiant, colorful tree, symbolizing influence and effect.

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

Learners often confuse 'efecto' and 'impacto' because both mean 'effect' or 'consequence'. The key difference is intensity: 'impacto' suggests a stronger, more significant influence than the more general 'efecto'.

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.