a leading influence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a leading influence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that has a significant impact or effect on a particular situation, group, or field. Example: "Her research has been a leading influence in the development of new educational methods."

✓ Grammatically correct

Peter Merriman, a leading influence in Hawaii regional cuisine

Salim joined the Sarekat Islam and soon became a leading influence in that Indonesian nationalist group

Bernard Williams was a leading influence in philosophical ethics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

The bistro is a magnet for foodies and fans of Peter Merriman, a leading influence in Hawaii regional cuisine.

The New York Times - Travel

In 1915 Salim joined the Sarekat Islam (Islamic Association) and soon became a leading influence in that Indonesian nationalist group.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the world of culture, we skip samba and bossanova to meet a leading influence in funk carioca, the sound that has spread from favela parties to the mainstream.

The Guardian - Travel

He wrote, "I came out as a gay man in a community that initially offered the most welcoming and celebratory setting imaginable for that process and then, in a very short time, became ground zero for the epidemic that somehow passed over me but still continues to exert a leading influence on my most important life choices".

The New York Times

Bernard Williams (1929 2003) was a leading influence in philosophical ethics in the latter half of the twentieth century.

SEP

"[Bechtel Enterprises] has become a leading influence on other parts of Bechtel," says the group's bespectacled president, Paul Unruh, not immodestly.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

A few recall that, in 1908, he inspired the coinage of the term "cubism," in disparagement of a movement that would eclipse his leading influence on the Parisian avant-garde, and that he relaxed by playing the violin.

The New Yorker

He spoke not about the next five years but about the next 30, suggesting that by 2050 China would become a modern socialist "strong power" with leading influence on the world stage.

Vice

Although this attitude was supported by a broad range of political parties, the leading influence of the Christian Democratic Party CDAA) is relevant to note, because they were part of the government during many years (van El et al. 2010a).

Ethnicity and Health

Russia would prefer to expand the organization so as to dilute Beijing's leading influence and is especially keen on supporting India's membership bid.

The New York Times

If so, why does 'Aristotle was Aristotle' seem so much less informative than 'the teacher of Alexander the Great was the leading influence on Saint Aquinas'?

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a leading influence", ensure it's followed by a prepositional phrase that clarifies the area of impact (e.g., "a leading influence in modern art").

Common error

Avoid using "a leading influence" without providing specific examples or evidence to support the claim. Vague assertions weaken your argument and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a leading influence" functions as a noun phrase, where "leading" is an adjective modifying "influence". It typically acts as a subject complement or an appositive, describing someone or something that has a significant impact.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a leading influence" is used to describe something or someone that has a significant impact or effect, often guiding or shaping a particular area. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct. While "a leading influence" is not exceptionally frequent, its use is considered appropriate in formal and professional contexts such as news articles, academic publications, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly defines the area where the influence is exerted. Alternatives like "dominant force", "major player", or "key figure" can be used to convey similar but nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dominant force

Emphasizes strength and control rather than just impact.

a major player

Highlights importance and active participation in a field.

a key figure

Focuses on the individual as a central element.

a primary driver

Stresses the role of initiating and propelling forward.

a foremost authority

Indicates recognized expertise and credibility.

a principal factor

Highlights contribution to a specific result or outcome.

a significant factor

Highlights importance or the considerable effect exerted

a central figure

Focuses on the individual as a central element or character

a guiding light

Emphasizes direction and inspiration provided.

a pivotal role

Highlights the crucial and decisive contribution made.

FAQs

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

Use "a leading influence" to describe someone or something with a significant impact. For example, "Her work was "a leading influence" on subsequent research in the field."

What are some alternatives to "a leading influence"?

You can use alternatives like "a dominant force", "a major player", or "a key figure", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "leading influence" or "major influence"?

Both "leading influence" and "major influence" are correct, but "leading influence" suggests a pioneering or guiding role, while "major influence" simply indicates significant impact. The better choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "a leading influence" and "a significant impact"?

"A leading influence" typically refers to a person or entity that shapes or guides a particular field or area. "A significant impact", on the other hand, refers to the measurable effect or result of something, which may not necessarily involve guidance or direction.