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A2 verb #402 most common 12 min read

influence

Top 402

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips influence in 30 Seconds

Explanation influence in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'influence' might seem a bit difficult, but you can think of it as a way to say 'change' or 'make someone do something.' Imagine you have a favorite teacher. Because you like that teacher, you study very hard. In this case, the teacher influences you. They change your behavior. You can use 'influence' to talk about your family, your friends, or even the weather. For example, 'The sun influences my mood.' This means when it is sunny, I feel happy. It is a word about how one thing affects another thing. At this level, just remember that 'influence' is a verb that shows a connection between two things. You don't need to use 'on' after it. Just say 'He influenced me.' It is a useful word for talking about why you do certain things or why you like certain things. You might see it in simple stories or hear it when people talk about their role models. Even though it is a longer word, it is very common in English. Try to use it when you want to explain the reason for a change in how you think or act. For example, 'My friend influenced my choice of music.' This is a great way to make your English sound more natural and descriptive, even at the beginning of your learning journey.

For A2 learners, 'influence' is an important word for describing relationships and causes. It means to have an effect on how someone thinks, behaves, or develops. You will often hear it when people talk about their childhood or their hobbies. For instance, 'My parents influenced my decision to become a doctor.' This means your parents' opinions or actions helped you choose your job. At the A2 level, you should start to notice that 'influence' is more than just 'making' someone do something; it is often about a gentle or indirect change. You can also use it for things like the weather, music, or movies. 'The movie influenced my opinion on the war.' This shows that after watching the movie, your thoughts changed. Remember the grammar: 'influence' is a verb that takes a direct object. You 'influence someone' or 'influence something.' It is also good to know that 'influence' can be a noun, but as a verb, it is very powerful for explaining the 'why' behind actions. You might encounter this word in news reports or in discussions about famous people. For example, 'Social media influencers try to influence what people buy.' This is a very modern and common use of the word. Practice using it in sentences about your own life to become more comfortable with it. It is a key word for moving beyond very simple descriptions to more detailed explanations of cause and effect.

At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'influence' in a variety of contexts, including professional and academic ones. It is a more formal and precise alternative to 'affect' or 'change.' You can use it to discuss complex topics like how culture influences behavior or how economic factors influence the price of goods. At this stage, you should also be comfortable using adverbs to describe the degree of influence. For example, you might say someone was 'strongly influenced' or 'subtly influenced.' This adds nuance to your speaking and writing. You will also start to see 'influence' used in the passive voice: 'He was influenced by the works of Shakespeare.' This is a common way to talk about artistic or intellectual inspiration. It is important to distinguish between 'influence' as a verb and 'influence' as a noun. As a verb, it doesn't need a preposition: 'The weather influenced our plans.' As a noun, it often does: 'The weather had an influence on our plans.' B1 learners should also be aware of related words like 'influential' (adjective) and 'influence' (noun). Using these different forms will help you express yourself more clearly. You might also hear the word in business meetings, such as 'We need to influence the client's decision.' This implies using persuasion and logic rather than force. Overall, 'influence' is a versatile tool for describing the subtle ways in which the world around us shapes our lives and the lives of others.

B2 learners should have a sophisticated understanding of 'influence' and its many applications. You should be able to use it to describe not just personal changes, but also systemic and historical ones. For example, you might analyze how the Enlightenment influenced modern democracy or how globalization influences local cultures. At this level, you should be adept at using 'influence' in complex sentence structures, including those with relative clauses and various tenses. You should also be able to distinguish 'influence' from similar verbs like 'sway,' 'impact,' 'shape,' and 'mold.' For instance, 'sway' is often used for changing someone's mind in a specific debate, while 'shape' is used for long-term development. Understanding these subtle differences will help you achieve a higher level of precision in your English. You will also encounter 'influence' in more idiomatic and formal expressions, such as 'undue influence' in legal contexts or 'sphere of influence' in political science. B2 learners should also be aware of the psychological aspects of influence, such as peer pressure or the power of authority. In your writing, you can use 'influence' to build logical arguments about cause and effect. For example, 'Several factors influenced the outcome of the experiment, including temperature and pressure.' This shows a high level of academic competence. You should also be comfortable using the word in professional settings to describe leadership and persuasion strategies. Being able to 'influence without authority' is a common phrase in modern business that you should understand and be able to discuss.

At the C1 level, your use of 'influence' should be highly nuanced and contextually appropriate. You should be able to discuss the word's philosophical and psychological underpinnings, such as the difference between conscious and unconscious influence. In academic and professional writing, you should use 'influence' to describe intricate relationships between variables, often using sophisticated modifiers like 'profoundly,' 'pervasively,' or 'tangentially.' You should also be familiar with the word's use in specialized fields. In law, for instance, you might discuss the criteria for 'undue influence' in contract disputes. In sociology, you might analyze how social structures influence individual agency. At this level, you should also be able to critique the use of influence in media and politics, discussing concepts like 'manufactured consent' or the 'influence of special interest groups.' Your vocabulary should include a wide range of synonyms and related terms, allowing you to avoid repetition and choose the exact word for the situation. For example, you might use 'permeate' to describe an influence that is felt everywhere, or 'precipitate' to describe an influence that causes a sudden change. You should also be able to use 'influence' in the passive voice to create a more objective or formal tone. For example, 'The results were influenced by a number of confounding variables.' This level of precision is expected in high-level academic and professional communication. Furthermore, you should be able to engage in deep discussions about the ethics of influence, such as the responsibility of those in power to influence others for the common good.

C2 proficiency implies a masterful command of 'influence' in all its forms and connotations. You should be able to use the word with total ease in the most demanding intellectual and professional environments. This includes understanding the subtle rhetorical effects of choosing 'influence' over its synonyms in different contexts. For example, you might use 'influence' to suggest a subtle, almost invisible shaping of thought, while using 'impact' for a more tangible, measurable effect. You should be able to navigate the complex grammar of the word perfectly, including its use in highly formal and archaic structures if necessary. In your writing, you should be able to weave 'influence' into sophisticated analyses of history, literature, and science. You might explore how the cultural zeitgeist of the 19th century influenced the development of the novel, or how quantum mechanics influences our understanding of reality. Your understanding of the word should also extend to its negative and manipulative aspects, allowing you to discuss 'subliminal influence' or 'propaganda' with precision. At this level, you should also be able to use the word creatively, perhaps using it as a metaphor or in poetic contexts. You should be a master of the various collocations and idioms associated with the word, using them naturally and effectively. Furthermore, you should be able to lead discussions on the nature of influence itself, exploring questions of agency, causality, and the interconnectedness of human experience. Your use of 'influence' should reflect a deep and comprehensive understanding of the English language and the complex world it describes.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

influence in 30 Seconds

To influence is to have the power to change how someone thinks, behaves, or develops, often in a subtle or indirect way.
It is a transitive verb, meaning it acts directly on an object, such as a person, a decision, or a result.
Commonly used in contexts like leadership, social media, marketing, and personal relationships to describe impact and persuasion.
Unlike 'force,' influence implies a level of agency or a psychological shift rather than physical or mandatory compulsion.

The verb influence is a powerful and versatile word used to describe the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something. Unlike words that imply physical force or direct command, influence often suggests a more subtle, psychological, or indirect process. When you influence someone, you are not necessarily telling them what to do; rather, your actions, words, or mere presence are shaping their decisions or thoughts. This word is essential in discussions about leadership, social dynamics, marketing, and personal growth. It is used in professional settings to describe how a manager might guide a team, in academic settings to discuss how one theory affects another, and in daily life to talk about how friends or family shape our choices.

Social Context: In social media, the term is frequently linked to 'influencers'—individuals who have the power to affect the purchasing decisions of others because of their authority, knowledge, or relationship with their audience. However, as a verb, it applies to anyone. A teacher might influence a student's career path by sparking an interest in science. A friend might influence your taste in music by sharing their favorite playlists.

The weather can significantly influence a person's mood and energy levels throughout the day.

Furthermore, influence can be used to describe non-human factors. For instance, economic trends influence the stock market, and environmental factors influence the growth of plants. It is a transitive verb, meaning it always acts upon an object. You do not just 'influence'; you influence a person, a decision, a result, or a trend. The scope of the word is broad, covering everything from the minor (influencing what someone eats for lunch) to the monumental (influencing the outcome of a national election or the course of human history).

Professional Context: In business, the ability to influence stakeholders without having direct authority over them is considered a key leadership skill. This involves persuasion, building trust, and presenting logical arguments to change how others perceive a project or a strategy.

The CEO's speech was designed to influence the investors' confidence in the new product line.

In summary, to influence is to be a catalyst for change. It is about the power of ideas, behaviors, and environmental factors to reshape the world around them. Whether it is a subtle nudge or a profound transformation, influence is the invisible thread that connects causes to effects in human behavior and natural phenomena. It is a word that captures the essence of impact and the interconnectedness of all things.

Peer pressure can often influence teenagers to make choices they might otherwise avoid.

Ancient Greek philosophy continues to influence modern Western thought and political systems.

Scientific Context: In science, we use influence to describe how variables interact. For example, temperature influences the rate of a chemical reaction, or gravity influences the orbits of planets.

Genetic factors significantly influence a person's physical characteristics and susceptibility to certain diseases.

Using the verb influence correctly requires understanding its grammatical structure and the nuances of its meaning. As a transitive verb, it must be followed by a direct object. You influence something or someone. It is common to see it used in both active and passive voices. In the active voice, the subject is the source of the change: 'The advertisement influenced my decision.' In the passive voice, the focus is on the person or thing being changed: 'My decision was influenced by the advertisement.' This flexibility allows speakers to emphasize either the cause or the effect depending on the context of the conversation.

Active Voice Examples: 1. The mentor influenced her career choices. 2. Diet can influence your long-term health. 3. New technologies influence how we communicate with each other.

Does the media influence the way people vote in elections?

When discussing the degree of influence, we often use adverbs to provide more detail. Common adverbs include 'strongly,' 'heavily,' 'significantly,' 'subtly,' and 'profoundly.' For example, 'The book profoundly influenced my worldview' suggests a deep and lasting change, whereas 'The weather subtly influenced my choice of clothing' suggests a minor, perhaps even unconscious, adjustment. These modifiers help convey the intensity and importance of the influence being described.

Passive Voice Examples: 1. The artist's work was heavily influenced by his travels in Asia. 2. Children are easily influenced by the behavior of their parents. 3. The final score was influenced by the referee's controversial decision.

Many young writers are influenced by the style of Ernest Hemingway.

Another important aspect of using 'influence' is the context of 'influence over.' While 'influence' usually takes a direct object, we sometimes say someone has 'influence over' a person or a situation. However, in this case, 'influence' is acting as a noun. As a verb, we stay with the direct object: 'The lobbyist tried to influence the senator.' This distinction is vital for maintaining grammatical accuracy in both formal writing and casual speech.

The teacher's goal was to influence her students to think critically about the news.

Can a single person really influence the direction of a whole company?

Common Collocations: Influence behavior, influence outcomes, influence opinions, influence policy, influence growth, influence development.

The availability of resources will influence the project's timeline.

The verb influence is ubiquitous in modern English, appearing in a wide range of environments from the living room to the boardroom. In the digital age, you will hear it most frequently in the context of social media and marketing. Marketers are constantly trying to influence consumer behavior, and 'influencer marketing' has become a multi-billion dollar industry. When people talk about their favorite YouTubers or Instagram stars, they are often discussing how these individuals influence their fashion choices, travel destinations, or even their political views.

In the News: News anchors and journalists use the word to describe political and economic shifts. You might hear, 'The central bank's decision to raise interest rates will influence the housing market,' or 'Foreign governments are being accused of trying to influence the upcoming election.' In these contexts, influence refers to a significant power to change the course of events.

Social media algorithms influence what news stories we see first.

In educational and academic settings, 'influence' is a staple word. Professors discuss how historical events influenced the development of modern laws, or how one author influenced another's writing style. Students are often asked to write essays on 'the factors that influence' a particular phenomenon, such as climate change or the rise of a new social movement. It is a word that helps scholars describe the complex relationships between different ideas and events.

In Personal Conversations: At home, parents might worry about how friends influence their children. Friends might talk about how a movie influenced their perspective on a social issue. It is a common way to acknowledge that our thoughts and actions are not formed in a vacuum but are shaped by the world around us.

My older sister really influenced my decision to study engineering.

Finally, you will encounter 'influence' in legal and ethical discussions. Terms like 'undue influence' are used in law to describe situations where someone is pressured into signing a contract or making a will against their true wishes. In this sense, influence can have a negative or even criminal connotation, highlighting the darker side of the power to change someone's mind.

The jury was warned not to let their personal biases influence their verdict.

How much does advertising influence what you buy at the grocery store?

In Sports: Commentators often talk about how a star player's presence influences the entire team's performance or how the crowd's energy influences the home team's momentum.

The coach's halftime speech influenced the players to play with more aggression.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with the verb influence is confusing it with the words 'affect' and 'effect.' While they are related in meaning, their grammatical usage is distinct. 'Affect' is almost always a verb (e.g., 'The rain affected the game'), while 'effect' is usually a noun (e.g., 'The rain had a bad effect'). 'Influence' can be both a verb and a noun, which adds to the confusion. When using it as a verb, remember that it functions like 'affect'—it acts directly on an object without needing a preposition.

The Preposition Error: Many students mistakenly say 'influence on.' For example, 'The teacher influenced on the student.' This is incorrect because 'influence' is a transitive verb. The correct form is 'The teacher influenced the student.' You only use 'on' when 'influence' is a noun: 'The teacher had an influence on the student.'

Incorrect: He tried to influence on my choice. Correct: He tried to influence my choice.

Another common error is using 'influence' when 'force' or 'compel' would be more appropriate. Influence implies a degree of choice or a subtle shift in perspective. If someone is being physically forced to do something, 'influence' is too weak a word. For example, 'The thief influenced the clerk to give him the money' is likely incorrect; 'The thief forced the clerk' is more accurate. Understanding the level of agency involved is key to choosing the right word.

Confusing Noun and Verb Forms: In writing, learners sometimes fail to change the form of the word correctly. As a verb, it needs to be conjugated: 'He influences,' 'They influenced,' 'She is influencing.' As a noun, it stays 'influence' (or 'influences' for plural). Mixing these up can lead to sentences like 'He has influence the team,' which should be 'He has influenced the team' or 'He has influence over the team.'

Incorrect: The music influence me deeply. Correct: The music influenced me deeply.

Finally, be careful with the spelling. Some learners confuse 'influence' with 'influenza' (the flu) or 'influence' with 'affluence' (wealth). While they sound somewhat similar, their meanings are entirely different. 'Influence' is about impact and power, 'influenza' is a virus, and 'affluence' is about having a lot of money. Always double-check the context to ensure you are using the intended word.

Many people are influenced by celebrity culture without even realizing it.

Don't let your fears influence your potential for success.

Misusing the Passive Voice: While the passive voice is common, overusing it can make your writing sound weak. Instead of 'The decision was influenced by the data,' try the more direct 'The data influenced the decision.'

Your environment can influence your productivity more than you think.

While influence is a great all-purpose word, English offers many synonyms that can provide more specific meaning depending on the situation. Choosing the right alternative can make your writing more precise and engaging. For example, if you want to describe a gentle or gradual change, you might use 'shape' or 'mold.' If the change is more forceful or direct, 'impact' or 'sway' might be better choices. Understanding these nuances is a key part of moving from an intermediate to an advanced level of English proficiency.

Influence vs. Affect: 'Affect' is the most direct synonym. It simply means to produce a change in something. 'Influence' is often preferred when the change involves thoughts, behaviors, or long-term development. You 'affect' the outcome of a game, but you 'influence' a person's character.

The new law will influence how businesses operate in this region.

'Sway' is another excellent alternative, particularly when talking about changing someone's opinion or decision. It suggests a movement from one side to another, much like a tree swaying in the wind. 'He was swayed by her emotional argument' implies that he was leaning one way but changed his mind. 'Impact' is often used for more significant or dramatic changes, especially in business or environmental contexts: 'The new policy will impact thousands of workers.'

Comparison Table: 1. Influence: General, psychological, or developmental. 2. Affect: Direct, often physical or immediate. 3. Sway: Changing an opinion or decision. 4. Impact: Strong, significant, or large-scale change. 5. Shape: Gradual, long-term development.

Try not to let your personal feelings sway your professional judgment.

In academic writing, you might encounter 'bias' or 'predispose.' These are more technical terms. To 'bias' someone is to influence them in a way that is unfair or one-sided. To 'predispose' someone is to influence them beforehand so that they are more likely to behave in a certain way. These words are useful when you need to be very specific about the nature of the influence. On the other hand, 'inspire' is a very positive alternative, suggesting that the influence leads to creativity or positive action.

The coach's dedication inspired the team to work harder than ever.

The documentary was intended to shape public opinion on climate change.

Other Alternatives: Manipulate (negative influence), persuade (influence through logic), prompt (influence to act), determine (strong influence that decides an outcome).

Market forces often determine the price of consumer goods.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The word 'influenza' (the flu) has the same root. In the 18th century, people believed that the disease was caused by the 'influence' of the stars or the cold weather.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈɪnfluəns/

US /ˈɪnfluəns/

First syllable: IN-flu-ence

Rhymes With

affluence confluence effluence refluence mellifluence circumfluence diffluence profluence

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as in-FLU-ence (stressing the second syllable).
Confusing the 'u' sound with 'oo' as in 'in-floo-ence'.
Mixing up the ending with 'ents' (influents).
Adding an extra syllable like 'in-flu-en-ce'.
Mumbling the middle 'u' so it sounds like 'in-flens'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word is common but often appears in complex academic or professional texts.

Writing 4/5

Learners often struggle with the preposition 'on' and confusing it with 'affect/effect'.

Speaking 2/5

It is easy to pronounce and very useful in daily conversation.

Listening 2/5

It is a clear, distinct word that is easy to recognize in speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

change power people think make

Learn Next

influential impact affect persuade charisma

Advanced

hegemony predispose manipulate catalyst prestige

Grammar to Know

Transitive Verbs

Influence is a transitive verb, so it needs a direct object: 'He influenced the team.'

Passive Voice

The object of the active sentence becomes the subject: 'The team was influenced by him.'

Adverb Placement

Adverbs usually come before the verb: 'She strongly influenced the outcome.'

Noun vs. Verb

Verb: 'It influenced me.' Noun: 'It had an influence on me.'

Gerunds

Using the -ing form as a noun: 'Influencing others is a key leadership skill.'

Examples by Level

My parents influence my life.

Mes parents influencent ma vie.

Subject + Verb + Object.

The sun can influence your mood.

Le soleil peut influencer votre humeur.

Can + base verb.

Does music influence you?

Est-ce que la musique vous influence ?

Question form with 'does'.

My teacher influenced my study habits.

Mon professeur a influencé mes habitudes d'étude.

Past tense with -ed.

Friends influence the way we talk.

Les amis influencent la façon dont nous parlons.

Present simple for a general truth.

This book will influence many people.

Ce livre influencera beaucoup de gens.

Future tense with 'will'.

He wants to influence his brother.

Il veut influencer son frère.

Infinitive form 'to influence'.

Don't let them influence you.

Ne les laisse pas t'influencer.

Imperative form with 'let'.

Social media can influence what we buy.

Les réseaux sociaux peuvent influencer ce que nous achetons.

Influence + noun clause (what we buy).

The weather influenced our decision to stay home.

Le temps a influencé notre décision de rester à la maison.

Influence + noun (decision).

She was influenced by her favorite artist.

Elle a été influencée par son artiste préféré.

Passive voice: was + past participle.

Can a movie influence how you think?

Un film peut-il influencer votre façon de penser ?

Influence + adverbial clause (how you think).

The coach influenced the team to play better.

L'entraîneur a influencé l'équipe pour qu'elle joue mieux.

Influence + object + to-infinitive.

His travel experiences influenced his writing.

Ses expériences de voyage ont influencé son écriture.

Past simple tense.

They tried to influence the vote.

Ils ont essayé d'influencer le vote.

Tried + to-infinitive.

Your diet influences your energy levels.

Votre alimentation influence votre niveau d'énergie.

Present simple for a fact.

The new policy will significantly influence the local economy.

La nouvelle politique influencera considérablement l'économie locale.

Use of adverb 'significantly'.

Many factors influence the success of a small business.

De nombreux facteurs influencent le succès d'une petite entreprise.

Plural subject with present simple.

He was heavily influenced by the philosophy of the East.

Il a été fortement influencé par la philosophie de l'Orient.

Passive voice with adverb 'heavily'.

Does the environment influence a child's development?

L'environnement influence-t-il le développement d'un enfant ?

Question form in present simple.

The advertisement was designed to influence young consumers.

La publicité a été conçue pour influencer les jeunes consommateurs.

Passive voice + infinitive purpose.

She managed to influence the board's final decision.

Elle a réussi à influencer la décision finale du conseil d'administration.

Managed + to-infinitive.

The teacher's praise influenced the student's confidence.

Les éloges de l'enseignant ont influencé la confiance de l'élève.

Possessive noun as subject.

Cultural differences can influence how people communicate.

Les différences culturelles peuvent influencer la façon dont les gens communiquent.

Modal 'can' + influence.

The rise of the internet has profoundly influenced modern journalism.

L'essor d'Internet a profondément influencé le journalisme moderne.

Present perfect with adverb 'profoundly'.

It is difficult to determine how much the media influences public opinion.

Il est difficile de déterminer à quel point les médias influencent l'opinion publique.

Noun clause 'how much the media influences...'.

The architect's style was influenced by the Bauhaus movement.

Le style de l'architecte a été influencé par le mouvement Bauhaus.

Passive voice in past simple.

Lobbyists often try to influence government legislation.

Les lobbyistes essaient souvent d'influencer la législation gouvernementale.

Present simple with adverb 'often'.

Peer pressure can influence teenagers to engage in risky behavior.

La pression des pairs peut influencer les adolescents à adopter des comportements à risque.

Influence + object + to-infinitive.

The discovery of oil influenced the region's political landscape.

La découverte de pétrole a influencé le paysage politique de la région.

Past simple with complex object.

How does your upbringing influence your current values?

Comment votre éducation influence-t-elle vos valeurs actuelles ?

Interrogative form with 'how'.

The scientist's early work influenced generations of researchers.

Les premiers travaux du scientifique ont influencé des générations de chercheurs.

Past simple with plural object.

The philosopher's ideas continue to influence contemporary ethics.

Les idées du philosophe continuent d'influencer l'éthique contemporaine.

Continue + to-infinitive.

Subtle biases can influence the outcome of a clinical trial.

Des biais subtils peuvent influencer le résultat d'un essai clinique.

Modal 'can' with plural subject.

The artist sought to influence the viewer's perception of reality.

L'artiste a cherché à influencer la perception de la réalité du spectateur.

Sought + to-infinitive.

Economic instability can influence the social fabric of a nation.

L'instabilité économique peut influencer le tissu social d'une nation.

Metaphorical use of 'social fabric'.

The study explores how environmental factors influence gene expression.

L'étude explore comment les facteurs environnementaux influencent l'expression des gènes.

Noun clause in a scientific context.

He was accused of using his position to influence the contract award.

Il a été accusé d'avoir utilisé sa position pour influencer l'attribution du contrat.

Passive voice + gerund phrase.

The author's prose is clearly influenced by 19th-century literature.

La prose de l'auteur est clairement influencée par la littérature du XIXe siècle.

Passive voice with adverb 'clearly'.

Technological advancements will inevitably influence the future of work.

Les progrès technologiques influenceront inévitablement l'avenir du travail.

Future tense with adverb 'inevitably'.

The pervasive influence of neoliberalism has influenced global policy for decades.

L'influence envahissante du néolibéralisme a influencé la politique mondiale pendant des décennies.

Present perfect with duration 'for decades'.

One must consider how historical trauma can influence current political discourse.

Il faut considérer comment le traumatisme historique peut influencer le discours politique actuel.

Formal 'one' as subject.

The findings suggest that sleep deprivation can adversely influence cognitive function.

Les résultats suggèrent que le manque de sommeil peut influencer négativement la fonction cognitive.

Scientific reporting style.

The playwright's work was influenced by the existentialist movement of the mid-20th century.

L'œuvre du dramaturge a été influencée par le mouvement existentialiste du milieu du XXe siècle.

Complex passive structure.

It is argued that social media algorithms influence the polarization of society.

On soutient que les algorithmes des réseaux sociaux influencent la polarisation de la société.

Passive introductory phrase 'It is argued that'.

The director's choice of lighting was intended to influence the audience's emotional response.

Le choix de l'éclairage du réalisateur était destiné à influencer la réponse émotionnelle du public.

Passive voice + infinitive purpose.

The sheer scale of the project will influence the entire supply chain.

L'ampleur même du projet influencera l'ensemble de la chaîne d'approvisionnement.

Future tense with 'sheer scale' as subject.

How do unconscious biases influence the recruitment process in large corporations?

Comment les biais inconscients influencent-ils le processus de recrutement dans les grandes entreprises ?

Complex interrogative form.

Synonyms

affect impact sway shape bias inspire

Antonyms

follow neglect ignore

Common Collocations

influence behavior

influence outcomes

influence opinions

influence decisions

strongly influence

subtly influence

influence growth

influence policy

influence development

unduly influence

Common Phrases

influence the course of history

— To make a change that affects many people for a long time.

The invention of the steam engine influenced the course of history.

influence the result

— To have an effect on the final score or conclusion.

A late goal influenced the result of the match.

influence someone's thinking

— To change the way someone understands or views a topic.

The lecture really influenced my thinking on climate change.

influence the market

— To cause prices or trends in business to change.

New technology can quickly influence the market.

influence the vote

— To change how people choose in an election.

The scandal was expected to influence the vote.

influence the future

— To make choices now that change what will happen later.

The decisions we make today will influence the future.

influence the public

— To change the opinions or behaviors of many people.

The campaign aimed to influence the public to recycle more.

influence the world

— To have a global impact.

Great leaders strive to influence the world for the better.

influence the process

— To have an effect on how something is done.

The new manager wanted to influence the hiring process.

influence the direction

— To change the path or goal of a project or person.

Her advice influenced the direction of my research.

Often Confused With

influence vs affect

Affect is a general verb for change. Influence is more specific to thoughts and behaviors.

influence vs effect

Effect is usually a noun. Influence can be both, but the verb usage is what is often confused.

influence vs influenza

A medical term for the flu. It sounds similar but has a completely different meaning.

Idioms & Expressions

"under the influence"

— Commonly refers to being affected by alcohol or drugs.

He was arrested for driving under the influence.

legal/informal

"peddle influence"

— To use one's power or connections in a dishonest way for gain.

The politician was accused of peddling influence.

political/negative

"sphere of influence"

— An area or group over which a person or nation has power.

The country sought to expand its sphere of influence in the region.

political/formal

"undue influence"

— Pressure that makes someone do something they don't want to do.

The will was challenged on the grounds of undue influence.

legal

"a person of influence"

— Someone who has a lot of power to change things.

She is a person of influence in the fashion world.

neutral

"exert influence"

— To use your power to make something happen.

The board tried to exert influence over the CEO.

formal

"wield influence"

— To have and use power or impact.

The union wields significant influence in the industry.

formal

"bad influence"

— A person or thing that makes someone behave poorly.

His parents thought his new friends were a bad influence.

informal

"good influence"

— A person or thing that makes someone behave better.

The coach was a good influence on the young players.

informal

"use your influence"

— To use your connections to help someone or something.

He used his influence to get his friend a job interview.

neutral

Easily Confused

influence vs affluence

Sounds similar to influence.

Affluence means having a lot of money or wealth, while influence means having power or impact.

His affluence allowed him to live in a mansion, but his influence allowed him to change laws.

influence vs confluence

Shared root '-fluence'.

Confluence is the meeting of two rivers or the coming together of things, while influence is the effect of one thing on another.

The confluence of the two rivers was a beautiful sight.

influence vs effluence

Shared root '-fluence'.

Effluence refers to something flowing out, like waste or light, whereas influence is about impact.

The factory was fined for the effluence it pumped into the river.

influence vs coerce

Both involve making someone do something.

Coerce involves force or threats, while influence involves persuasion or subtle impact.

The boss tried to influence the staff with bonuses, but he didn't coerce them.

influence vs dictate

Both involve power over others.

Dictate means to give orders that must be followed, while influence is a more indirect power.

The general dictated the terms of the surrender.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + influence + Object

Music influences me.

Subject + can influence + Object

The weather can influence your mood.

Subject + adverb + influence + Object

She strongly influenced my decision.

Subject + be + influenced + by + Agent

He was influenced by his father.

Subject + influence + Object + to + Verb

The coach influenced the team to work harder.

It is + Adjective + to + influence + Object

It is difficult to influence public opinion.

Subject + influence + how/what/why + Clause

The environment influences how we grow.

The + Noun + of + Subject + influence + Object

The pervasive nature of the media influences the culture.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in both spoken and written English.

Common Mistakes

The teacher influenced on the student. → The teacher influenced the student.
Influence is a transitive verb and does not take the preposition 'on'.
The weather had a big influence the game. → The weather influenced the game. (or) The weather had a big influence on the game.
If you use 'influence' as a noun with 'had', you need 'on'. If you use it as a verb, you don't.
He was in-FLU-enced by the book. → He was IN-flu-enced by the book.
The stress should be on the first syllable, not the second.
The rain effected my mood. → The rain influenced my mood. (or) The rain affected my mood.
'Effect' is usually a noun. You need a verb like 'influence' or 'affect' here.
The thief influenced the man to give him his wallet. → The thief forced the man to give him his wallet.
'Influence' is too weak for physical force or crime. Use 'force' or 'compel'.

Tips

Direct Object

Always remember that 'influence' as a verb is transitive. This means you must have an object immediately following it. For example, 'The teacher influenced the student.' Never say 'The teacher influenced to the student.'

Synonym Choice

Use 'sway' when you are talking about changing someone's mind in a specific argument. Use 'shape' when talking about long-term growth. This makes your English sound more advanced and precise.

Leadership

In a business context, the ability to 'influence' is often better than the ability to 'command.' It shows you can lead people by making them want to follow you, rather than forcing them.

Adverb Power

Don't just say something influenced something else. Use an adverb to show how much. 'Profoundly influenced' sounds much more impressive and gives the reader more information.

Stress the First Syllable

The most common pronunciation mistake is stressing the second syllable. Always say 'IN-fluence.' Practicing this will immediately make your speech sound more natural.

Context Clues

When you hear 'influence' in the news, it's usually about power and change. Look for the 'who' (the influencer) and the 'what' (the thing being changed) to understand the story.

Social Media

Understand that 'influencer' is now a job title. When people talk about influencers, they are talking about the verb 'influence' in action in the digital world.

Undue Influence

In legal English, 'undue influence' is a key term. It means someone was pressured into a decision. Knowing this can help you understand legal dramas or news stories.

Causality

In essays, 'influence' is a great word for discussing cause and effect. It allows you to describe a relationship without claiming a 100% direct cause, which is often more accurate.

Fluid Root

Remember the root 'flu' means 'flow.' Influence is like a power that flows from one person to another. This helps with both the meaning and the spelling.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'IN-FLOW-ence'. An influence is like a power that FLOWS IN to a person or situation and changes it.

Visual Association

Imagine a drop of blue ink falling into a glass of clear water. The ink influences the color of the entire glass of water as it spreads.

Word Web

Power Change Affect Sway Impact Persuade Lead Shape

Challenge

Try to use the word 'influence' three times today: once at work or school, once with a friend, and once in a journal entry.

Word Origin

The word 'influence' comes from the Old French word 'influence,' which in turn comes from the Medieval Latin 'influentia.' This Latin term is derived from 'influere,' which means 'to flow in.'

Original meaning: In the Middle Ages, it was an astrological term referring to the 'flowing in' of ethereal power from the stars that was believed to affect the character and destiny of humans.

Indo-European (Latin branch)

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'influence' in legal contexts, as 'undue influence' is a serious accusation. Also, avoid using it to describe physical force.

In the United States and the United Kingdom, 'influence' is a very common word in professional development and self-help literature.

The book 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' by Dale Carnegie. The concept of 'spheres of influence' in Cold War history. The 'Influencer' awards on various social media platforms.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Education

influence a student's path
the influence of a teacher
influence learning outcomes
be influenced by academic theories

Business

influence consumer behavior
influence the market
influence a decision
influence stakeholders

Politics

influence the vote
influence government policy
sphere of influence
influence public opinion

Personal Life

influence a friend
be influenced by family
influence a child's character
a good influence

Science/Nature

influence the climate
influence growth
influence a reaction
be influenced by environmental factors

Conversation Starters

"Who is the person who has influenced your life the most and why?"

"Do you think social media influencers have too much power over young people?"

"How does the weather influence your mood or your plans for the day?"

"Can a book or a movie really influence the way a person thinks about the world?"

"In what ways do your friends influence the choices you make every day?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time when a teacher or mentor influenced a major decision in your life.

Reflect on how your cultural background influences the way you communicate with others.

Consider the products you buy. How much does advertising influence your purchasing habits?

Describe a situation where you tried to influence someone else's opinion. Were you successful?

How do you think technology will influence the way we live twenty years from now?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is both! As a verb, it means to affect someone or something (e.g., 'He influenced me'). As a noun, it means the power to affect someone or something (e.g., 'He has a lot of influence').

When using it as a verb, do not use 'on.' Correct: 'The music influenced her.' When using it as a noun, you often use 'on.' Correct: 'The music had an influence on her.'

'Affect' is a more general word for any kind of change. 'Influence' is often used when the change is psychological, social, or related to development and behavior.

Yes, influence can be positive or negative. You can be a 'good influence' or a 'bad influence' on someone.

Yes, an 'influencer' is a person who has the power to influence others, especially on social media. It is a very common word today.

The stress is on the first syllable: IN-flu-ence. It rhymes with 'affluence.'

Yes, it is very common. For example: 'The young artist was influenced by the works of Van Gogh.'

Common adverbs include strongly, heavily, significantly, profoundly, subtly, and directly.

It is a specific idiom that usually means someone is affected by alcohol or drugs, often used in a legal context like 'driving under the influence.'

It is a neutral word that can be used in both casual conversation and formal writing. It is more precise than 'change' or 'make.'