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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.

His book, The Influence of Sea Power Upon History, 1660-1783, published in 1890, found disciples in Theodore and Franklin Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, Kaiser Wilhelm II, and the Japanese imperial naval ministry, and shaped 20th-century history.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

Instead of learning “The Art of the Deal,” he should have studied “How to Win Friends and Influence People.”

From Salon • Sep. 26, 2025

The two-time Grammy-winner is known for hits like Loyal, Run It and Under the Influence.

From BBC • May 21, 2025

By Christie Brinkley Harper Influence: 416 pages, $34 If you buy books linked on our site, The Times may earn a commission from Bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookstores.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 29, 2025

Influence of Chagall, according to the catalogue, but that is not true.

From "The House of the Spirits: A Novel" by Isabel Allende




Vocabulary lists containing influence


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