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Definitions

influence

[in-floo-uhns] / ˈɪn flu əns /




Usage

What are other ways to say influence? Influence is a personal and unofficial power derived from deference of others to one's character, ability, or station; it may be exerted unconsciously or may operate through persuasion: to have influence over one's friends. Authority is a power or right, usually because of rank or office, to issue commands and to punish for violations: to have authority over subordinates. Control is either power or influence applied to the complete and successful direction or manipulation of persons or things: to be in control of a project. 

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Ahead of their time, George Washington, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson in particular used their positions to influence public health and disseminate medical knowledge to their communities and people around the country.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

Researchers also considered other factors that might influence memory, including physical activity, social engagement, depression scores, diabetes, and other health conditions.

From Science Daily • Apr. 14, 2026

Alice Coltrane accomplished so much, and her influence is only now rising to the level it should have been when she was still on this planet.

From Salon • Apr. 14, 2026

Separately, the prime minister's brother, David Sánchez, has been indicted in an investigation into alleged influence peddling tied to his hiring by a regional government.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

Pilots and navigators, many of them already experienced flight instructors, were all sure that the famous Marina Raskova might be able to influence the highest levels of government in a way that they could not.

From "A Thousand Sisters" by Elizabeth Wein




Vocabulary lists containing influence