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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.

But the kingdom watched its influence ebb as neighbors, especially the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, raced ahead in attracting international investors.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

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

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 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

Researchers are now studying how ice wedge polygons, a common Arctic landscape feature, influence how water and carbon move toward coastal areas.

From Science Daily • Apr. 4, 2026

Humans, of course, had no idea they had such influence.

From "The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest" by Aubrey Hartman