a source of influence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of influence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something or someone that has the power to affect or change opinions, behaviors, or decisions. Example: "The media serves as a source of influence in shaping public perception on various issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

But we've come around to see that it's a source of influence and engagement with the company.

Harvard University

Critics say the board would provide Mr. James with a source of influence even after he steps down as mayor in June.

The New York Times

They also take responsibility for making their boss, a key member of their network, a source of influence on their behalf.

Harvard Business Review

The deep-pocketed roundtable, which represents 100 of the nation's largest financial institutions, is looked to as a source of influence on the law.

The New York Times

These individuals, who had been traditionally ignored by Punjab's center-right politicians (almost all of whom follow the Sufi school of through), have provided Elahi with a source of influence in these communities -- unparalleled by other main-stream politicians.

The Guardian

The term 'German juridical debate' is used to denote the legal academic community, which, in contrast to the academic communities of other member states of the EU, acts as a source of influence on the jurisprudence of the Bundesverfassungsgericht or German Federal Constitutional Court ("FCC"), which in turn has considerable influence on the European integration process.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Secondly, as our data indicate that parent-child co-participation in activity is unlikely to be a source of parental influence, any existing parental influence is likely to be a function of parental facilitation of physical activity.

BMC Public Health

They considered food, especially the D.I.Y. food scene in the United States, a source of creative influence.

The New York Times

Nevertheless, they have found the means to make Kinshasa a source of distinctive influence in intellectual and popular culture felt throughout Africa.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Joining the monks on Mt. Athos, northern Greece, the focus of Greek monasticism and Byzantine Orthodoxy, he devised a program for a moderate form of Hesychasm and made Mt. Athos a source of Hesychast influence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Philosophy itself may be a source of priming influence, with its mostly male line-up for reading lists, conferences and teachers (see Jennifer Saul on the psychological biases affecting philosophy).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a source of influence", clearly identify what is being influenced and in what manner. Providing context enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the degree of influence without providing supporting evidence or examples. Ensure your claims are substantiated by facts or observations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of influence" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. It identifies something that provides or exerts influence. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

9%

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a source of influence" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes something capable of affecting decisions, opinions, or behaviors. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and widely applicable across different writing contexts. Its prominence in News & Media, Science, and Academia underscores its versatility. To enhance clarity, specifying what is being influenced and how is recommended. Avoiding unsubstantiated claims of influence is also crucial for maintaining credibility. Alternatives such as "a key driver" or "a contributing factor" can be used to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a contributing factor

Focuses on the role of contributing to a result, rather than the power to affect something.

a major impetus

Highlights the role of initiating or driving forward a process or change.

a key driver

Emphasizes the proactive role in propelling or steering a particular outcome.

an agent of change

This alternative suggests a deliberate action towards transformation or reform.

a formative influence

Implies a developmental impact that shapes character or beliefs over time.

a guiding force

Suggests direction and leadership, rather than a broader impact.

a powerful determinant

Underlines the decisive nature of affecting an outcome or situation.

a prime mover

Suggests the initial or primary entity responsible for an action or change.

an inspiration

Focuses on the ability to stimulate creativity or motivation in others.

a catalyst

This term refers to something that speeds up a reaction or change, not necessarily with power.

FAQs

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

You can use "a source of influence" to describe anything that has the power to affect decisions, opinions, or behaviors. For example: "The media is often cited as "a source of influence" on public opinion."

What are some alternatives to saying "a source of influence"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "a contributing factor", "a key driver", or "a guiding force". Each of these carries a slightly different nuance.

Is it better to say "a source of influence" or "an influence"?

While both are grammatically correct, "a source of influence" implies a more significant or primary role in exerting influence. Simply saying "an influence" is more general and doesn't necessarily indicate importance.

What makes something "a source of influence"?

Something becomes "a source of influence" when it has the ability to affect or shape outcomes, behaviors, or thoughts. This can stem from authority, expertise, popularity, or other factors that grant it power over others.