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influential
/ˌɪnfluˈɛnʃəl/
having great influence
The influential scientist's research changed the field of genetics.
The scientist's work was so impactful that it transformed genetic science.
formal
Having the power to affect or change situations, people, or opinions
She became an influential figure in the local community after leading the charity campaign.
Her leadership in the campaign gave her significant control over community decisions.
The report by influential economists predicted the economic downturn.
The economists' report, respected in financial circles, accurately forecast the recession.
Often used to describe people, organizations, or ideas with widespread impact. Not typically used for objects or abstract concepts without human agency.
Collocations
influential figurea person who has a strong impact on othersinfluential rolea position that allows someone to affect outcomesinfluential in + fieldhaving significant impact within a specific area
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid redundancy
Do not pair 'influential' with 'very' (e.g., 'very influential'). Instead, use stronger synonyms like 'extremely influential' or 'highly influential'.
Gold Rule
Context matters
Use 'influential' to describe people, organizations, or ideas that actively shape outcomes, not passive objects or abstract concepts.
Word Origin
From Latin *influentialis*, from *influere* meaning 'to flow into' (from *in-* 'into' + *fluere* 'to flow'). Originally used in astrology (17th century) to describe the flowing of ethereal fluid affecting events, later adopted in general contexts by the 19th century.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in academic, political, and social contexts. Avoid using for objects unless they have a clear human impact (e.g., 'an influential law' is acceptable, but 'an influential chair' is not).
Word Breakdown
in-
into
prefixflu-
to flow
root-ential
relating to
suffixEnglish Dictionary