influence

[ˈɪnflʊəns]

influence Definition

• 1. the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something
• 2. the power to shape policy or ensure favorable treatment from someone, especially through status, contacts, or wealth

Using influence: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "influence" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  Her parents' influence led her to become a doctor.

• Example

  The company has a lot of influence over the government's policies.

• Example

  He used his influence to get his friend a job.

• Example

  The media has a significant influence on public opinion.

influence Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for influence

• impact
• effect
• sway
• control
• authority

Antonyms for influence

• impotence
• powerlessness

Idioms Using influence

• influence the outcome

  to affect the final result of something

  Example

  The weather could influence the outcome of the game.

• yield to influence

  to give in to pressure or persuasion

  Example

  She eventually yielded to his influence and changed her mind.

• have some influence with someone

  to have some ability to affect someone's decisions or actions

  Example

  I have some influence with the CEO, so I might be able to help you get the job.

Phrases with influence

• under the influence

  affected by alcohol or drugs

  Example

  He was arrested for driving under the influence.

• have an influence on

  to affect or change someone or something

  Example

  Her work has had a great influence on modern art.

• influence peddling

  the use of one's position of power or influence to gain favors or preferential treatment

  Example

  The politician was accused of influence peddling to secure government contracts for his friends.

Origins of influence

from Latin 'influentia', meaning 'a flowing in'

📌

Summary: influence in Brief

The term 'influence' [ˈɪnflʊəns] refers to the capacity to affect the character, development, or behavior of someone or something. It can also mean the power to shape policy or ensure favorable treatment, often through status, contacts, or wealth. Examples include 'Her parents' influence led her to become a doctor.' and 'The media has a significant influence on public opinion.' Phrases like 'under the influence' denote being affected by alcohol or drugs, while idioms like 'influence the outcome' imply affecting the final result of something.