Grammar fix
have an impact
affect
to strongly influence or change someone or something
collocationB1common
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
Social media can have an impact on how people feel about themselves.
In my opinion, teachers have an impact on students’ motivation and future success.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: It had a big impact in my life.
Say: It had a big impact on my life.
'Have an impact ON' something, not 'in'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Have an impact on' is the natural collocation; 'exerts a considerable influence upon' is heavy.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
have an impact on
- on the economy
- a huge impact
- a lasting impact
- on people's lives