disproportionate influence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "disproportionate influence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where one entity or factor has an excessive impact compared to others. Example: "The lobbyists exerted a disproportionate influence on the legislative process, swaying decisions in their favor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Big Star has a similarly disproportionate influence.

The New Yorker

But it is wrong to think they wield disproportionate influence.

The Guardian

Ben Elton is sounding off about the disproportionate influence billionaires seem to be granted in Australia.

The Guardian

The vindictiveness and disproportionate influence of the blogosphere is a particularly sore subject.

The New York Times - Books

Giving these same states disproportionate influence in nominating and electing the president is unfair and undemocratic.

The New York Times

THOUGH these reformers faced rejection at home, they had a disproportionate influence on the South.

The New York Times

Vindictive groups, often with disproportionate influence, cast them as a national security threat.

The Guardian - Opinion

But its status as the last stronghold of the opposition gave it disproportionate influence.

The New Yorker

They can have a disproportionate influence in shaping debates – if only by excluding any contrary arguments.

The Guardian

Mary Ann Sieghart in the Independent says Clegg wields disproportionate influence over the government.

The Guardian

This is only a problem if those donations buy disproportionate influence.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "disproportionate influence" when simply describing strong influence. Reserve it for situations where the level of impact is demonstrably imbalanced relative to another factor.

Common error

A common mistake is to use "disproportionate influence" when "significant influence" or "strong influence" would be more accurate. "Disproportionate" specifically indicates an imbalance, not just a high degree of impact.

Linguistic Context

Disproportionate influence functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It describes the state of having an imbalanced level of impact or power. Ludwig provides many examples from reliable sources that exemplify this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "disproportionate influence" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes an imbalanced level of impact or power. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts. While it is most commonly found in news and media, it also appears in scientific and formal business settings. When using this phrase, it's essential to ensure the context clearly defines what the influence is disproportionate to, avoiding its misuse as a mere synonym for "strong influence". Alternatives such as "undue sway" or "unbalanced impact" can offer nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disproportionate power

Focuses specifically on the imbalance of power, closely mirroring the original phrase.

undue sway

Focuses on the improper or unfair nature of the influence.

unbalanced impact

Highlights the lack of equilibrium in the effect produced.

lopsided effect

Emphasizes the skewed or asymmetrical outcome of the influence.

excessive leverage

Stresses the overwhelming power or advantage exerted.

inordinate control

Suggests an unreasonable or unrestrained degree of command.

unfair advantage

Highlights the unjust or inequitable nature of the influence.

skewed power

Points out the distorted or biased distribution of power.

undeserved prominence

Implies that the influence is not justified or merited.

unjustified authority

Highlights the lack of legitimate basis for the influence.

FAQs

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

You can use "disproportionate influence" to describe situations where something has an excessive impact compared to others. For example: "Wealthy donors can have a disproportionate influence on political campaigns".

What's a good alternative to "disproportionate influence"?

Alternatives include "undue sway", "unbalanced impact", or "excessive leverage", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "disproportionate influence"?

Yes, "disproportionate influence" is a correct and commonly used phrase in English. Ludwig AI confirms its validity.

What's the difference between "disproportionate influence" and "significant influence"?

"Disproportionate influence" implies an imbalance, where one factor has an impact that is excessive relative to others. "Significant influence" simply indicates a notable or considerable impact, without necessarily implying an imbalance.