repercutir

Repercutir is a Spanish verb that expresses the idea that an event, decision, or action produces consequences that extend beyond its immediate scope, affecting other domains or groups. It can refer to physical effects, such as sounds or impacts, as well as to figurative effects, such as economic, social, or political consequences. The noun form is repercusión.

Etymology and sense: the term derives from Latin repercutere, formed by re- “back, again” and percutere “to strike.” In modern usage, repercutir often implies a chain of effects or an echo-like spread of impact across spaces or sectors, rather than a single direct result.

Usage and examples: repercutir is commonly used with the preposition en to indicate the area affected. Examples include: “La subida de impuestos repercutió en los precios,” meaning the price level was affected; “La crisis sanitaria repercutió negativamente en la economía,” or “Las noticias repercutieron rápidamente en la opinión pública.” It can appear in active constructions or in formal or period-language contexts.

Comparison and notes: repercutir is similar in meaning to affect, incidir, or influir, but often carries a sense of indirect, propagated, or wider-reaching effects. It is more formal than some everyday alternatives and is widely understood in both Spain and Latin America.

Related terms: repercusión (n.), repercutido (participio/adjetivo), incidir, afectar. See also discussions of impact, consequence, and causal propagation.