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influence
/ˈɪnfluəns/
the power to affect someone's behavior or decisions
Her positive attitude had a strong influence on her team.
Her positive attitude significantly affected her team's behavior and decisions.
general
The power or capacity to affect someone's actions, thoughts, or decisions.
The politician's speech had a profound influence on public opinion.
The politician's speech significantly shaped public opinion.
Social media influencers can shape trends and consumer behavior.
People with large online followings can affect trends and how people buy things.
Can be positive or negative, depending on the context.
general
To have an effect on someone or something, often indirectly.
The weather can influence people's moods.
Weather conditions can affect how people feel.
Her childhood experiences influenced her career choices.
Her early life shaped her decisions about her career.
Often used in the passive voice (e.g., 'He was influenced by his mentor').
Collocations
have an influence onto affect or shape somethingunder the influence ofaffected by something or someoneinfluential personsomeone who has a strong effect on others
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Noun vs. Verb
As a noun, 'influence' refers to the power to affect. As a verb, it means to shape or affect something.
Common Prepositions
Use 'on' or 'to' after 'influence' (e.g., 'influence on' or 'influence to').
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
Be careful not to overuse 'influence' in formal writing; synonyms like 'affect' or 'impact' can add variety.
Word Origin
From Old French 'influencer,' from Latin 'influere' (to flow into), from 'in-' (into) + 'fluere' (to flow).
Usage Notes
Can be used as a noun or verb. As a verb, it is often followed by 'on' or 'to.'
Word Breakdown
in-
into
prefix-flu
flow
root-ence
state or condition
suffixEnglish Dictionary