Influence: meaning, definitions and examples

Exerting a subtle or indirect impact on someone or something, often in a positive or neutral manner.

• Her kindness had a significant influence on the team's morale.
• The book greatly influenced his perspective on life.

A strong or significant influence or effect on someone or something, often used to describe powerful or notable changes.

• The hurricane had a devastating impact on the community.
• Her speech made a lasting impact on the audience.

The result or outcome produced by a particular influence or action, typically used when describing changes or results.

• The new law had a positive effect on the environment.
• The medicine had an immediate effect on her health.

Exercising direct power or command over someone or something, often associated with a sense of domination or authority.

• The manager has complete control over the project's budget.
• He struggled to control his anger during the meeting.

Influence someone or something in a gentle or gradual way, often implies causing a change of opinion or decision.

• The politician tried to sway voters by promising tax cuts.
• Her heartfelt plea swayed him to reconsider his decision.

Used when describing the ability to have an impact on someone's behavior or decisions, often subtly or indirectly.

• Her speech had a significant influence on the audience's opinion.
• Parents heavily influence their children's values and beliefs.

Usually used to describe a direct impact or change in something, especially in terms of emotions or physical condition.

• The heavy rain affected the traffic conditions in the city.
• The sad movie affected her deeply, making her cry.

Often used to describe the formative influence or gradual development of someone's character, actions, or the structure of something over time.

• Experiences in childhood can shape a person's future.
• Feedback from users helped shape the new software features.

Used when describing neutral or positive changes or adjustments made to improve something or suit a particular purpose.

• You can modify the settings on your phone to suit your preferences.
• The recipe was modified to make it healthier.

Used to describe something that directly causes an outcome or result, often with a sense of decisiveness or control.

• The judge's ruling will determine the fate of the defendant.
• Your attitude can determine your success in life.