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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.

Wilson also pointed to the drop in megacap stocks in the S&P 500 that heavily influence its trajectory.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

Using mathematical analysis, they tracked how the influence of each layer moves through the circuit.

From Science Daily • Apr. 6, 2026

In a series of studies, including recent work published in Earth and Planetary Science Letters, she has examined how these electrically charged dust activities influence the chemistry of Mars, particularly through their impact on isotopes.

From Science Daily • Apr. 5, 2026

The next major milestone is expected overnight Sunday into Monday, at which point the astronauts will enter the "lunar sphere of influence," where the Moon's gravity will have stronger pull on the spacecraft than Earth's.

From Barron's • Apr. 5, 2026

“Dating from three o’clock yesterday. My perpetual influence could not begin earlier, or you would not have been so much out of humour before.”

From "Emma" by Jane Austen