Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
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.

Freeman describes Lilley as a friend, and an anonymous email sent to City Council in 2024 complained their socializing “could be perceived as exerting undue influence or favoritism.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2026

Page Six is still around and frequently breaks news on Trump-adjacent topics like his son Barron’s dating life or Trump’s marriage to Melania, but its influence has diminished in a post-monocultural era.

From Slate • Jun. 11, 2026

The biggest sector throwing money to influence EU policy-makers?

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

It is undeniable that Musk is exemplary at attracting capital and contracts for his company through his power and influence.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

I presume that the sanguine temperament itself and the disturbing influence end in a mentally-accomplished finish; a possibly dangerous man, probably dangerous if unselfish.

From "Dracula" by Bram Stoker




Vocabulary lists containing influence


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "influence" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com