Exert influence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Exert influence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of having an effect on someone or something, often in a persuasive or controlling manner. Example: "The organization aims to exert influence over local policies to promote environmental sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Nicholson said it suggested a desire to exert influence.

The Guardian

For tactical reasons, they prefer to exert influence as outsiders.

The Guardian - Sport

But, without "interfering", it is hard to exert influence.

The Economist

He can exert influence over another three, which the government controls.

The New York Times

Governors in both parties, however, have long sought to exert influence over authorities and commissions.

The New York Times

As the largest shareholder in the fund, the United States can exert influence on its policies.

The New York Times

But as soon as you become a public company, shareholders exert influence".

The Guardian

Shouldn't Congress exert influence over the drug companies, and not the other way around?

The New York Times

Even a single word, a single epithet, may exert influence on the viewer".

The Guardian - Opinion

Though the two would be nonvoting members, he said they could still exert influence.

The New York Times

--Details of efforts of HAMAS to exert influence over Palestinians to consolidate their support.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, specify the target or scope of the influence. For example, instead of just saying "exert influence", clarify by saying "exert influence on policy decisions".

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the extent of influence. It's more accurate to say "attempt to exert influence" or "seek to exert influence" when the outcome is uncertain.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Exert influence" functions as a verb phrase, where "exert" is the transitive verb and "influence" is the direct object. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It describes the action of applying power or pressure to affect someone or something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

17%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Exert influence" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase used to describe the act of actively affecting or shaping something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is generally considered correct and shows widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. To enhance clarity, consider specifying the target of the influence and avoid exaggerating its extent. Alternatives such as "wield influence" or "exercise influence" can be employed to add variety to writing. The phrase carries a neutral to formal tone, making it suitable for diverse forms of communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Wield influence

Replaces "exert" with "wield", emphasizing the active and skillful use of influence.

Exercise influence

Uses "exercise" instead of "exert", suggesting a practical application of influence.

Bring to bear influence

Emphasizes the application of influence as a deliberate action.

Have an impact on

Shifts from active exertion to the resulting effect of having influence.

Make an impression on

Focuses on the act of affecting someone's mind or feelings.

Shape opinion

Highlights the impact of influence on opinions or beliefs.

Affect outcomes

Concentrates on influencing the results or consequences of a situation.

Control affairs

Implies a greater degree of dominance and command.

Manipulate events

Suggests a more strategic and potentially negative application of influence.

Pull strings

An idiom suggesting the exertion of hidden or indirect influence.

FAQs

How can I use "Exert influence" in a sentence?

You can use "Exert influence" to describe the act of affecting someone or something through your actions or position. For example, "Lobbyists often seek to exert influence on lawmakers."

What can I say instead of "Exert influence"?

You can use alternatives like "wield influence", "exercise influence", or "have an impact on", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "Exert influence" or "Have influence"?

"Exert influence" implies an active effort to affect something, while "have influence" simply states the capacity to do so. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the action or the state of having power. For example, "The senator actively "exerts influence" on committee decisions", versus "The senator "has influence" due to seniority".

What's the difference between "Exert influence" and "Exert control"?

"Exert influence" suggests persuasion or guidance, while "exert control" implies direct command or domination. For instance, "A teacher may "exert influence" on a student's career choices", versus "A dictator "exerts control" over the population".