evil influences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "evil influences" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe negative or harmful effects that can affect a person, situation, or environment. Example: "The protagonist struggled to resist the evil influences that surrounded him, threatening to lead him down a dark path."

✓ Grammatically correct

General discussions about morality and behavior

Religious or spiritual contexts

Societal commentary

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

OTHER WOMENTIONEDIONED Sir Thomas Alleged to Be Under "Evil Influences" -- Counter-Affidavits Are Filed.

The New York Times

Evil influences were held to mark most of the katun endings.

Encyclopedia Britannica

To these activities were added other functions, such as recitations of the sacred texts at births, marriages, and in sicknesses to keep evil influences at bay.

Encyclopedia Britannica

An account of all the possible evil influences in the life of Tony Ruellan, aged 8, as seen through the eyes of his father, Mike.

The New Yorker

The destruction of the former world order, however, prepares for a new and better world, exempt from evil influences, over which reign a few divine survivors of the catastrophe.

Britannica

"When we opened the resort, the snakes disappeared". In his wallet, Mr. Rowe carries a mantra to ward off evil influences written for him by Wayan Kitan, another balian.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

He denounced the evil influence of Jews in American life.

The New Yorker

"Everybody said Jimmy Sheeley had an evil influence," Mr. Randazzo said.

The New York Times

Archives|JUDGES LAY CRIME TO IMPROPER FILMS; Kings County Bench Condemns Movies as Exerting an Evil Influence on Children.

The New York Times

"You may end up being branded as having an evil influence," Yirenya-Tawiah says.

The Guardian

JUDGES LAY CRIME TO IMPROPER FILMS; Kings County Bench Condemns Movies as Exerting an Evil Influence on Children.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts, provide concrete examples of what constitutes "evil influences" in the given context to enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "evil influences" as a blanket explanation for complex issues. Instead, delve into the specific factors and motivations contributing to negative outcomes for a more nuanced and insightful analysis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "evil influences" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "evil" modifies the noun "influences". It describes forces or factors that have a morally negative or harmful impact. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "evil influences" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe negative or harmful forces, as validated by Ludwig. It is frequently found in News & Media, Encyclopedias and Academia, and can be used to identify and condemn factors with a negative moral impact. While widely understood, it's important to consider the context and audience when using this phrase, opting for more nuanced or formal alternatives like "pernicious influences" or "detrimental effects" where appropriate. Avoid overusing it as a simplistic explanation, and instead, provide specific details to enhance clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

corrupting influences

Emphasizes the aspect of moral decay or corruption.

negative forces

Replaces "evil" with a more general term for negativity, reducing the intensity.

malign influences

Similar to malevolent, but can also imply a more subtle or insidious effect.

pernicious influences

Uses a more formal and stronger term than "evil", indicating destructiveness.

malevolent forces

Indicates active ill will and intent to harm.

dark influences

Emphasizes the mysterious and ominous nature of the influences.

harmful effects

Focuses on the damaging consequences rather than the source.

unwholesome influences

Suggests something that is unhealthy or morally corrupting.

detrimental effects

Highlights the damaging outcomes or results of something.

baneful effects

Emphasizes the destructive and poisonous nature of the influences.

FAQs

How can I use "evil influences" in a sentence?

You can use "evil influences" to describe factors that corrupt or negatively affect someone or something. For example: "The protagonist struggled against the "evil influences" of the city.".

What are some alternatives to "evil influences"?

Some alternatives include "negative forces", "corrupting influences", or "harmful effects", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "evil influences" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "evil influences" may be too strong or simplistic for some formal contexts. Consider alternatives like "pernicious influences" or "detrimental effects" for a more nuanced tone.

What is the difference between "evil influences" and "negative impacts"?

"Evil influences" typically implies a moral or malicious component, while "negative impacts" is a more neutral term referring to adverse effects, without necessarily suggesting intent or moral failing.