vaikutus

Vaikutus is a Finnish noun meaning effect, impact, or influence. It is derived from the verb vaikuttaa, “to affect,” and is used to describe the result or consequence of an action, event, or phenomenon, as well as the degree to which something influences another thing. The word covers both concrete, observable outcomes and more abstract, indirect influences.

In scientific and technical contexts, vaiku tus refers to measurable results, such as the effect of a treatment or intervention. For example, «lääkkeen vaikutus» denotes the drug’s effect, and researchers may discuss the effect size in studies. In social sciences and policy analysis, the term addresses broader or longer-term consequences and influences on people, groups, or systems.

Common related forms and compound terms include «vaikutusvalta» (influence or power), «vaikutusmekanismi» (mechanism of action or effect), and «vaikutusalue» or «vaikutuspiiri» (sphere or area of influence or effect). The word also appears in everyday language; for instance, «hän teki vaikutuksen» means he made an impression or had an influence on someone. In medical language, a related term is «sivuvaikutus,» meaning side effect. Vaikutus is often contrasted with «teho» (potency or efficacy), which refers more to the strength of an action rather than its actual outcome.