B1noun 1K

Influence

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈɪnfluəns/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈɪnfluəns/"]/

Meaning of Influence

the effect that somebody/something has on the way a person thinks or behaves or on the way that something works or develops

In simple words: To have an effect on someone or something.

Influence in a sentence

• Her influence on the committee was undeniable, as she often swayed their decisions.
• The influence of social media can be seen in how quickly news spreads.
• Many authors are heavily influenced by their personal experiences.
• You can influence the outcome of the project by sharing your ideas.
• Her influence in fashion trends cannot be understated.
• Cultural influences can impact a person's beliefs and behavior.
• He works to influence public opinion through his speeches.
• The influence of technology in our lives continues to grow.

How to use Influence

Used in both formal and informal contexts to describe how one person or thing affects another. Be cautious not to confuse it with 'affect' which is more emotion-based.

Grammar pattern

influence + object

Memory hint

Think of 'influence' as 'in flow' — it’s all about how things move or change each other.

Related words

Collocations with Influence

• big
• considerable
• enormous
• have
• gain
• give somebody
• extend
• grow
• wane
• under the influence
• influence from
• influence in
• a sphere of influence
• bring your influence to bear on somebody/​something
• under the influence
• big
• considerable
• enormous
• have
• gain
• give somebody
• extend
• grow
• wane
• under the influence
• influence from
• influence in
• a sphere of influence
• bring your influence to bear on somebody/​something
• under the influence
• big
• considerable
• great
• be
• have
• be exposed to
• be at work
• affect something
• shape something
• influence on

Synonyms for Influence

• affect
• shape
• impact
• sway
• guide

Opposites of Influence

• disregard
• ignore
• neglect

Common mistakes with Influence

• Used as a noun instead of a verb without context.
• Confused with 'affect' versus 'effect'.
• Omitting the object when using it in sentences.

Frequently asked questions about Influence

What does Influence mean?

To have an effect on someone or something.

What is the definition of Influence?

the effect that somebody/something has on the way a person thinks or behaves or on the way that something works or develops

How do you use Influence in a sentence?

Her influence on the committee was undeniable, as she often swayed their decisions.

Can you give another example of Influence?

The influence of social media can be seen in how quickly news spreads.

What are synonyms for Influence?

Common alternatives include affect, shape, impact, sway, guide.

What is the opposite of Influence?

Opposite meanings include disregard, ignore, neglect.

What words go with Influence?

It commonly pairs with big, considerable, enormous, have, gain, give somebody, extend, grow, wane, under the influence, influence from, influence in, a sphere of influence, bring your influence to bear on somebody/​something, under the influence, big, considerable, enormous, have, gain, give somebody, extend, grow, wane, under the influence, influence from, influence in, a sphere of influence, bring your influence to bear on somebody/​something, under the influence, big, considerable, great, be, have, be exposed to, be at work, affect something, shape something, influence on.

What are common mistakes when using Influence?

Used as a noun instead of a verb without context. Confused with 'affect' versus 'effect'. Omitting the object when using it in sentences.

How do you pronounce Influence?

US: /["/ˈɪnfluəns/"]/, UK: /["/ˈɪnfluəns/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Influence?

Used in both formal and informal contexts to describe how one person or thing affects another. Be cautious not to confuse it with 'affect' which is more emotion-based.

What CEFR level is Influence?

"Influence" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.