a dominant influence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dominant influence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a person, group, or factor that has a significant impact or control over a situation or outcome. Example: "The company's marketing strategy has become a dominant influence in shaping consumer behavior in the industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Lord Byron was a dominant influence on the young Tennyson.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For the American composer Nico Muhly (b1981) English choral music is a dominant influence.

The Guardian - Music

It is a dominant influence in our lives, and it shapes global capitalism.

The Guardian

Mullen admitted yesterday that the Taliban had secured a "dominant influence" in 11 provinces.

The Guardian

London has exerted a dominant influence on the river for centuries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A dominant influence in the TGWU's formation and growth was Ernest Bevin, the union's first general secretary (1922 40).

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Guinea Coast is the forested region of West Africa, where Islam was not a dominant influence until recent years.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There are climate model simulations, which can't account for the observed warming without a dominant influence from the increased greenhouse effect.

The Guardian

"Dances for Isadora" is, of course, a homage to Isadora Duncan, a dominant influence on the American modern dance of Limón's time.

The New York Times - Arts

Iran is seen as a dominant influence in Lebanon, where it is secure in its alliance with Hezbollah, Lebanon's most powerful political, social and military force.

The New York Times

Socinus then settled at Kraków, Pol., where he attained a dominant influence in the Minor Reformed Church (Polish Brethren), centred at the colony of Racow.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a dominant influence", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being influenced and the extent of that influence. Clarity prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a dominant influence" when the factor in question only has a moderate effect. Ensure the influence truly outweighs other factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a dominant influence" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates it describes something exerting significant impact or control. Examples show it defining entities or factors with substantial power.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a dominant influence" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signifies a major impact or controlling force. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and broad applicability. It appears most commonly in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates the scope and nature of the influence, and avoid overstating the effect. Alternatives such as "a major factor" or "a key driver" can provide nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a powerful influence

Highlights the strength and intensity of the impact.

a major factor

Focuses on the significance of something in contributing to a result, rather than its controlling power.

a key driver

Emphasizes the propelling force behind a process or outcome.

a prevailing influence

Suggests that the influence is widespread and current.

a primary force

Highlights the fundamental power or energy exerted.

a leading factor

Stresses the importance of something as one of several contributing elements.

a central element

Indicates the core or essential part of something.

a significant impact

Highlights the notable effect or influence exerted.

a major role

Focuses on the part played by something in a particular context.

a considerable effect

Emphasizes the substantial nature of the impact.

FAQs

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

Use "a dominant influence" to describe something that has a very strong effect or control over someone or something. For example, "The economy is "a dominant influence" on election outcomes".

What are some alternatives to saying "a dominant influence"?

You can use phrases like "a major factor", "a key driver", or "a powerful influence" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "the dominant influence" instead of "a dominant influence"?

Both are correct, but "the dominant influence" implies that it is the single most important factor, whereas "a dominant influence" suggests it is one of several significant factors.

When should I use "a dominant influence" versus "significant impact"?

"A dominant influence" suggests a controlling or primary effect, while "significant impact" simply indicates a notable effect. Use "a dominant influence" when you want to emphasize the controlling nature of the effect.