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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.

He added he intended to "retire" and would not seek to "influence" his successor, but said that "it is illusory to think that one can fade into the background".

From Barron's • Apr. 12, 2026

Mangeshkar attributed their silence to Bhosle's husband's influence.

From BBC • Apr. 12, 2026

By examining differences between subspecies within the same bacterial species, researchers can begin to uncover how gut microbes influence a wide range of health conditions.

From Science Daily • Apr. 9, 2026

They steady your position in moments of danger—they help you make the case, and share the intelligence burden—and broaden your influence in peace.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

I said, “I’m getting straight As,” so he’d know I’m a good influence.

From "Everything Sad Is Untrue" by Daniel Nayeri




Vocabulary lists containing influence