Wield influence over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Wield influence over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the ability to affect or control someone or something, often in a social, political, or organizational context. Example: "The CEO wields influence over the company's strategic decisions, shaping its future direction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

They now wield influence over Wall Street and the global economy.

The New York Times

People who express confidence are more likely to attain status in groups and more likely to wield influence over others.

University of California, Berkeley

The province of Saskatchewan, which Viterra is based, could wield influence over the federal government's review of foreign ownership rules.

The New York Times

"I'm here more than anything to form a bond with people who can eventually wield influence over important policy decisions".

The New York Times

This can be critical in informing decision-makers in donor countries who can wield influence over a repressive regime.

The Washington Post

District attorneys can also wield influence over the use of force policies at the police agencies in their districts.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Bernhardt has wielded influence over the department's most important agencies.

The Washington Post

Russia is intent on wielding influence over former Soviet states, and two books with similar titles examine the effort.

Yale University

However, according to The Independent's poll, most Britons would not accept the SNP wielding influence over English policy.

Independent

His brother, who wielded influence over his administration, was indicted in July on kickback charges, joining other former presidential aides accused of corruption.

The Economist

While there may be pessimism about the ability of the United Nations to rein in North Korea, there is growing optimism that China is now wielding influence over its neighbor.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "wield influence over" when you want to emphasize the active use of power or authority to affect a situation or person. It suggests a deliberate and often strategic application of influence.

Common error

Avoid using "wield influence over" in very informal contexts, as it can sound overly formal or pompous. Simpler phrases like "affect" or "impact" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wield influence over" functions as a verb phrase, where "wield" acts as the verb indicating the action of exerting influence. It is commonly used to describe the capacity or authority to affect decisions, actions, or behaviors, aligning with Ludwig AI's validation of its usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

17%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wield influence over" is a versatile phrase that conveys the active use of power or authority to affect outcomes or individuals. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English, deeming it suitable for contexts where strategic application of influence is emphasized. While common in news and media, it also appears in academic writing, suggesting a broad applicability. When aiming for impact, consider alternatives like "exert influence on" or "have sway over" for nuanced expression, but avoid overly informal contexts to maintain clarity and professionalism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Exert influence on

Replaces "wield" with "exert", which implies a more direct application of influence.

Have sway over

"Have sway" suggests a more subtle or persuasive form of influence.

Exercise control over

Focuses on the aspect of control, implying a more dominant role.

Hold power over

Emphasizes the power dynamic in the relationship.

Command influence on

"Command influence" suggests a recognized and respected position of authority.

Carry weight with

Suggests that someone's opinions or actions are considered important.

Dominate

Implies a comprehensive and possibly oppressive level of control.

Impact

Suggests a more general effect rather than direct control.

Affect

A broader term for having an effect, without necessarily implying control or power.

Have an effect on

Emphasizes the result or outcome of the influence.

FAQs

How to use "wield influence over" in a sentence?

You can use "wield influence over" to describe someone's ability to affect decisions or outcomes, such as: "The senator "wields influence over" key legislation".

What can I say instead of "wield influence over"?

You can use alternatives like "exert influence on", "have sway over", or "exercise control over" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "wield influence over" or "wield influence on"?

"Wield influence over" is the correct and more common phrasing. While "influence on" is grammatically sound in other contexts, "over" is preferred when describing the direct control or effect on someone or something.

What's the difference between "wield influence over" and "have an effect on"?

"Wield influence over" implies a more active and deliberate use of power or authority, whereas "have an effect on" is a more general term for causing a change or impact, without necessarily implying control.