Sphere of influence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Sphere of influence" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the area or domain in which a person, organization, or country has power or influence over others. Example: "The company's sphere of influence has expanded significantly in the last few years, allowing it to dominate the market."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They feel we still belong to their sphere of influence.

The Guardian

They have narrowed the public sphere of influence".

The Guardian

Meanwhile, Britain had established a sphere of influence in Iraq.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But Europe is not seeking a sphere of influence.

The Economist

Russia sees Ukraine as part of its sphere of influence.

The Economist

A Sphere of Influence By backing these leaders, Russia has also reaped economic benefits and maintained its regional sphere of influence.

The New York Times

Next week's After Hollywood looks at Quentin Tarantino's sphere of influence.

The Guardian - Film

"But of course that's the Congress's sphere of influence, not the Fed's".

The New York Times

But his greatest sphere of influence was as an arranger and composer for other jazz artists.

The New York Times - Arts

But so did America in its Latin American "sphere of influence" during the cold war.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Russia's 'sphere of influence'.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing international relations, use "sphere of influence" to accurately describe a region or country over which another state has significant cultural, economic, military, or political influence without formal authority.

Common error

Avoid using "sphere of influence" to describe local or personal influence. This term is generally reserved for significant geopolitical or organizational power dynamics, not individual relationships or small-scale situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sphere of influence" functions primarily as a noun phrase. Ludwig AI indicates it is grammatically correct. It typically acts as the object of a preposition or a verb, denoting an area or domain influenced by a particular entity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sphere of influence" is a grammatically sound noun phrase, commonly used to describe an area or domain significantly influenced by an entity. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widespread across credible sources like news outlets and encyclopedias. When writing, reserve this term for substantial geopolitical or organizational contexts. Be mindful of the scope of its application, and consider contextually appropriate alternatives like "area of dominance" or "zone of influence".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Zone of influence

Similar in meaning, but can also refer to a less formal or defined area of impact.

Area of impact

Focuses on the effect and reach that something has, rather than direct control.

Area of dominance

Focuses more specifically on control and power within a defined region.

Region of dominance

Emphasizes superiority and control within a specific geographic area.

Domain of power

Stresses the capacity to exert control and influence within a given area.

Territory of control

Highlights the geographical or conceptual space under a specific entity's command.

Scope of control

Highlights the extent to which influence or authority can be exercised.

Realm of authority

Emphasizes the legitimate power and control exerted in a particular space.

Range of authority

Implies a defined limit to the area over which influence is exerted.

Clout

A more informal term referring to the power to influence people or events.

FAQs

How can I use "sphere of influence" in a sentence?

You might say, "During the Cold War, Eastern Europe was largely within the Soviet Union's "sphere of influence"" or "The company's "sphere of influence" has expanded significantly in the last few years."

What are some alternatives to "sphere of influence"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "area of dominance", "zone of influence", or "area of impact".

Is it appropriate to use "sphere of influence" in a business context?

Yes, it is appropriate, particularly when describing a company's market reach, competitive landscape, or influence over industry trends. For example, "The tech giant has established a significant "sphere of influence" in the artificial intelligence sector".

What's the difference between ""sphere of influence"" and "area of control"?

"Sphere of influence" typically suggests indirect control or influence, often through cultural, economic, or political means, whereas "area of control" implies direct administrative or military dominance.