assert influence over

USAGE SUMMARY

"assert influence over" is a valid phrase in written English.
It means to actively exert one's control or authority over someone or something. Example: The powerful CEO was able to assert influence over the company's decision-making process, ensuring that his ideas were always accepted. Another example: The dictator's main goal was to assert his influence over the citizens by controlling the media and restricting freedom of speech.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

New Komeito questioned Mr Abe's moves last year to assert influence over the central bank's conduct of monetary policy.With his poll ratings high, Mr Abe appears to be looking at alliances with two likelier LDP bedfellows, the economically liberal Your Party and the right-wing Japan Restoration Party.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Apple is smartly asserting influence over multiple layers in the communications stack: devices (iPhones and iPads), operating system (iOS) and apps (iMessage, FaceTime, PhotoStream, etc).

TechCrunch

Europe and the United States are asserting influence through N.G.O.'s and by backing political changes.

The New York Times

However, as frailty scores showed some variation in the patient group, they have asserted influence on the outcomes.

BMC Geriatrics

It's here where Tea Party activists have expected to assert their influence over the party's nominating process.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mr. Poindexter, who is 65, was a controversial figure both for his role in the Iran-contra scandals and for his efforts to assert military influence over commercial computer security technologies.

The New York Times

Boosted by the news that the terminal ALS he was battling was, in fact, misdiagnosed, he now has a new lease of life and attempts to assert his influence over his Empire record label from inside.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Former immigration officials said that moving Mr. Cronin to oversee inspections would also let Stuart Anderson, the agency's top official for plans and policy, assert more influence over immigration programs.

The New York Times

But the officials said they were still sifting through intelligence reports to determine whether the attacks indeed marked an attempt by Al Qaeda to assert more influence over the Pakistani Taliban's operations.

The New York Times

In his address on Thursday, which focused on what he portrayed as the collapse of the capitalist world order, Mr. Ahmadinejad cited conspiracy theories speculating that the United States had set up the Sept. 11 attacks to revive its economy and assert its influence over the Middle East.

The New York Times

ALBANY -- Declaring that "government has failed to do what government should be doing," Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo moved on Monday to assert his influence over New York State's education policy, appointing a former Citigroup chairman to lead a new commission charged with improving student performance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "assert influence over", ensure the subject has the means and opportunity to exert their control. Be clear about the domain or area where the influence is being asserted.

Common error

Avoid using "assert influence over" when the subject's control is minimal or theoretical. Overstating the degree of influence can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "assert influence over" functions as a verb phrase, where "assert" is the main verb indicating an active attempt to exert control, and "influence over" specifies the object or area being controlled. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "assert influence over" is used to describe the active exertion of control or authority. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and notes that while not extremely common, it's employed across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedic sources. When employing this phrase, ensure the subject has the means to exert the stated control, and avoid overstating the actual degree of influence. Consider alternatives like "exert authority over" or "exercise control over" for nuanced meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exert authority over

Focuses on the explicit use of authority, which can be more direct than influence.

wield power over

Emphasizes the power dynamic, suggesting a more forceful control.

exercise control over

Highlights the act of controlling something, often implying a more managerial role.

dominate

Implies a stronger, more overwhelming control.

establish dominance over

Focuses on the act of setting up a dominant position.

command influence over

Suggests a natural or earned influence, rather than a forced one.

have sway over

Indicates a persuasive influence.

gain control over

Emphasizes the process of acquiring control.

impact

Highlights the effect on something or someone.

shape

Stresses the ability to mould something according to one's will.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "assert influence over" in a sentence?

You can use alternatives like "exert authority over", "wield power over", or "exercise control over" depending on the context.

What does it mean to "assert influence over" something?

It means to actively exert one's control or authority over someone or something, ensuring your ideas and decisions are taken into consideration.

Is there a difference between "exert influence over" and "assert influence over"?

The phrases are very similar. "Assert influence over" can imply a more deliberate or forceful attempt to establish control, while "exert influence over" is a more general expression of applying one's influence.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "assert influence over"?

It's appropriate in contexts where someone is actively trying to shape decisions, policies, or behaviors, particularly in areas like politics, business, or personal relationships. Ensure there is a power dynamic and that it fits the situation appropriately.