an influential figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an influential figure" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe someone who has a significant impact or influence in a particular field, community, or society. Example: "Nelson Mandela was not only a leader and activist, but also an influential figure in the fight against apartheid in South Africa."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

An avenue was even dedicated to Jean-Pierre Stirbois, an influential figure in Front National history.

Vice

Slimane remains an influential figure in fashion.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Suzanne G. Cusick is an influential figure in modern musicology.

Columbia University

SUZANNE G. CUSICK is an influential figure in modern musicology.

Princeton University

But he was never regarded as an influential figure.

The New York Times

Her explanation reduces an influential figure to banalities.

The New York Times - Books

As behavioral economics became more popular, Thaler also turned into an influential figure in policy circles.

The New Yorker

The woman accused of cutting her, Elsie Kondoromoh, is an influential figure in Sierra Leone.

The Guardian

Despite his role in abuses during the occupation, Daouda has remained an influential figure in Timbuktu.

The Guardian

Political leaders will want a supreme patriarch, an influential figure, to be sympathetic to their cause.

The Guardian

Some former associates have questioned his claim to have been an influential figure.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "an influential figure", be specific about the area or context in which they exert influence. Provide concrete examples of their impact.

Common error

Avoid using the term "an influential figure" loosely without providing supporting details or examples of their influence. Back up the claim with tangible evidence of their impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an influential figure" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or appositive. It identifies or describes someone of significant impact or authority within a particular context. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Academia

38%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an influential figure" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe someone with a significant impact. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and widespread use across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academia, it characterizes individuals who wield considerable power or effect. Remember to substantiate claims of influence with concrete examples and consider related phrases like "a prominent individual" or "a key player" for variety. Avoid overstating influence without evidence and always specify the area or context of the individual's impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major influence

Simplifies the structure while retaining the core meaning of having a significant effect.

a prominent individual

Replaces 'figure' with 'individual' and 'influential' with 'prominent', focusing on the person's notability.

an impactful person

Replaces 'influential' with 'impactful', emphasizing the person's ability to create change.

a leading personality

Substitutes 'figure' with 'personality' and 'influential' with 'leading', highlighting the person's role as a leader.

a significant leader

Focuses specifically on leadership as the source of influence.

a respected authority

Highlights the respect and authority that the person commands.

a key player

Uses a more informal idiom to indicate someone important in a particular context.

an important voice

Emphasizes the significance of the person's opinions and contributions.

a powerful force

Emphasizes the strength and impact of the person's influence.

a dominant presence

Focuses on the person's strong and noticeable presence in a particular area.

FAQs

How can I use "an influential figure" in a sentence?

You can use "an influential figure" to describe someone who has a significant impact in a particular field. For instance, "Marie Curie was "an influential figure" in the field of physics and chemistry".

What are some alternatives to saying "an influential figure"?

Alternatives include "a prominent individual", "a leading personality", or "a key player", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it better to say "an influential figure" or "an important figure"?

Both are correct, but "an influential figure" emphasizes the person's ability to affect or change things, while "an important figure" simply highlights their significance. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the term "an influential figure"?

It is appropriate to use "an influential figure" in contexts where you want to highlight someone's impact on a particular field, movement, or society. This term is suitable for describing leaders, innovators, and individuals who have made significant contributions.