Influential Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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influential
[ษชnหfluหษntสษl ]
Definitions
in business
Having the power to make other people do what you want them to do, especially because you are rich, famous or important.
Synonyms
powerful, prominent, significant.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| influential |
Used when describing someone or something that has the power to affect decisions or actions of others significantly.
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| powerful |
Best used to describe someone or something with great strength, control, or power over others. It often has a strong, impactful connotation.
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| prominent |
Used to describe someone or something that is important, well-known, or easily noticeable in a particular field or area.
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| significant |
Used for describing something that is important or has a meaningful impact or effect. It can refer to both positive and negative scenarios.
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Examples of usage
- He has become one of the most influential figures in the industry.
- Her influential friends helped her to secure the deal.
in society
Having the capacity or power to produce effects on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of others.
Synonyms
compelling, impactful, persuasive.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| influential |
Use this word when describing someone or something that has a significant, long-term effect on people, events, or ideas.
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| persuasive |
Use this word when talking about someone or something that can easily convince people to believe or do something, often through logical reasoning or emotional appeal.
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| compelling |
Use this word when describing something that is very convincing or impossible to resist, often in an emotional or dramatic sense.
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| impactful |
This word is used when referring to something that has a strong, noticeable effect on a situation, person, or event.
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Examples of usage
- The influential speech moved the audience to tears.
- His influential writing shaped the course of history.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- Many political leaders throughout history have been labeled as influential due to their ability to shape laws and public opinion.
- The Renaissance was a period filled with influential thinkers and artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, whose works changed the course of Western art.
- Influential movements, such as the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, were pivotal for social change, guided by leaders who inspired collective action.
Pop Culture
- Influential figures in modern culture include celebrities, authors, and activists who drive trends and social change, such as Oprah Winfrey and Malala Yousafzai.
- The internet has created platforms like Instagram where influencers can affect millions with fashion, lifestyle choices, and social issues.
- Movies and music often have influential soundtracks that define genres and touch on societal issues, influencing audiences' thoughts and emotions.
Psychology
- Research shows that individuals with high influence often possess strong social skills and emotional intelligence, allowing them to connect deeply with others.
- The 'bandwagon effect' suggests that people are likely to adopt behaviors or beliefs if they perceive that many others are doing the same, highlighting the power of influence.
- Influencing is closely tied to persuasive communication, where effective speech can change the attitudes or behaviors of others.
Business
- In the corporate world, thought leaders are seen as influential figures who set trends and guide the direction of industry practices.
- Influential marketing strategies often leverage social proof, where consumer behavior is swayed based on endorsements from prominent figures.
- Networking can greatly enhance one's influence in business, as relationships often open up new opportunities and promote ideas.
Origin of 'influential'
Main points about word origin
- The term originates from the Latin word 'influentialis,' which means 'having influence.'
- It has been used in the English language since the late 15th century, primarily related to physics and later to social contexts.
- Originally, it referred to the flow of a liquid that could affect change in other substances or entities.
The word 'influential' originated from the Latin word 'influentialis', which means 'flowing into'. The term was first recorded in the early 17th century. Over the years, 'influential' has evolved to describe individuals or things that have the power to impact or sway others. It is commonly used in various fields such as politics, business, and culture.
See also: influencable, influenceably, influenced, influencer, influencible, influencing, uninfluenced.