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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.

At age 38 he batted only .181 but provided a settling influence on young Dodgers stars Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

He’s placing considerable influence in the defense industry space, alongside many others who understand how far behind we are in reforming our military’s procurement process.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

"There isn't a life that Facebook's algorithm hasn't touched, and that influence has shaped everything. So it's time to say more," Sorkin told the event.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

In an online tribute, Smashing Pumpkins front man Billy Corgan wrote: “Finally, the dang secret is out! Their place among the greats secure, their influence on the generations patently obvious.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

With the breakup of the Ottoman Empire and the release of Arab lands from Turkish rule, that oil-rich region was divided into spheres of British and French influence.

From "The War to End All Wars: World War I" by Russell Freedman




Vocabulary lists containing influence