Cool MateInfluence
UK /["/ˈɪnfluəns/"]/US /["/ˈɪnfluəns/"]/
Definition
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.
Examples
- 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.
Usage notes
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.
Collocations
- 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
- affect
- shape
- impact
- sway
- guide
Antonyms
- disregard
- ignore
- neglect
Common mistakes
- Used as a noun instead of a verb without context.
- Confused with 'affect' versus 'effect'.
- Omitting the object when using it in sentences.