a position of influence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a position of influence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a role or status that allows someone to affect decisions, actions, or opinions of others. Example: "As a leader in the community, she holds a position of influence that enables her to advocate for important social issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A positive influence should be a guiding principal to those afforded a position of influence in shaping an industry.

Forbes

"He's in a position of influence," Scott said.

The New York Times - Sports

Loads of people over 30 in a position of influence just sit about fucking moaning.

The Guardian - Music

It was his scientific work that brought him into a position of influence.

The Guardian - Arts

"I wanted to be in a position of influence," he said, "and you can't influence a loser".

The New York Times

"This would be a position of influence that we have not seen in this area," he said.

The New York Times

It is virtually unimaginable that the 84-year-old former dictator will return to a position of influence.

The New York Times

President Ciampi is not the only member of the post-war generation still in a position of influence.

The Economist

Because the Roman Catholic Church supported nationalist aspirations, it held a position of influence in the postindependence period.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"That was an experience from the '80s, and there's no question it was painful," said Steinbrenner, who resisted taking a position of influence for his father then.

The New York Times - Sports

I, perhaps naively, ask at least this minimum from anyone in a position of influence who wants to talk seriously about Islam and the Muslim world.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's capability to affect change or decision-making, use "a position of influence" to highlight their impact, not just their title. For example, "She used her position of influence to advocate for policy changes."

Common error

Be cautious when using "a position of influence". Avoid implying someone has more power than they actually do. Assess the true scope of their impact before using the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a position of influence" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. It describes a specific state or role characterized by the capacity to affect decisions, actions, or opinions. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's used to highlight the impact someone has.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Encyclopedias

11%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Science

21%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a position of influence" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a role or status that allows someone to affect decisions, actions, or opinions. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and suggests alternatives like "a role of power" or "an influential role". The phrase appears frequently in news, encyclopedias, and business contexts, and its impact is generally understood to mean the ability to enact change. When using this phrase, be mindful of the true scope of someone's influence and avoid overstating their power.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a powerful position

Highlights the element of strength and control associated with the role.

an influential capacity

Focuses on the ability to affect outcomes, moving away from the idea of formal status.

a place of authority

Emphasizes the aspect of having recognized power and the right to give orders.

a dominant position

Stresses the aspect of being in control and having more power than others.

a commanding role

Highlights the aspect of authority and control, emphasizing direct power.

a leadership role

Specifically refers to guiding and directing others, often in a team or organization.

a place of leverage

Highlights the ability to use the position to gain advantage or exert pressure.

a strategic advantage

Focuses more on the benefit derived from the position rather than the position itself.

an upper hand

Emphasizes the positional advantage over others, particularly in a competitive context.

a controlling interest

Implies ownership or investment that grants significant power.

FAQs

How can I describe someone who has "a position of influence"?

You might describe them as holding "a leadership role", having "an influential capacity", or being "a powerful position". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always positive to be in "a position of influence"?

Not necessarily. While it often implies the ability to do good, "a position of influence" also carries responsibility. The impact can be positive or negative, depending on how the influence is used.

What's the difference between "a position of influence" and "a position of authority"?

"A position of authority" implies formal power and the right to give orders. "A position of influence" can exist without formal authority; it refers to the ability to affect decisions or actions, regardless of formal power. Someone might have "a position of authority" but lack real influence, and vice versa.

How do you obtain "a position of influence"?

It can be obtained through various means, such as holding a high-ranking job, having expertise in a particular field, building strong relationships, or advocating effectively for causes. It often requires earning the respect and trust of others.