exerting influence over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exerting influence over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of having an effect or impact on someone or something, often in a persuasive or controlling manner. Example: "The organization has been exerting influence over local policies to align them with their interests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

State leaders are growing more confident about exerting influence over multinationals.

The New York Times

The pitfalls Would Europe really want Russia exerting influence over an EU member in this way?

Independent

Gambling syndicates, including the triads, began exerting influence over investors, referees, coaches and players.

The Economist

By the mid-2000s, Saudi money and Saudi-trained clerics were already exerting influence over the Islamic Community of Kosovo.

The New York Times

Lippi's players arrived in Germany under the cloud of allegations that Juventus, Milan (Gattuso's club), Lazio and Fiorentina had been exerting influence over Serie A's pool of referees.

The Guardian - Sport

Both articles accused the Chinese government of oppressing press and religious freedoms in Hong Kong and exerting influence over its political-reform process.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

He can exert influence over another three, which the government controls.

The New York Times

Governors in both parties, however, have long sought to exert influence over authorities and commissions.

The New York Times

--Details of efforts of HAMAS to exert influence over Palestinians to consolidate their support.

The Guardian

But when insurers exert influence over the IoT, they will have access to powerful monitoring abilities.

The Guardian - Tech

Outfitted with motion sensors, the dancer exerts influence over the electronic sound.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exerting influence over", consider the specific context to determine if a more precise verb, such as "guiding", "shaping", or "controlling", would be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "exerting influence over" when a more specific verb clarifies the method of influence. For example, instead of "exerting influence over policy", consider "lobbying for policy changes" or "advocating for policy changes".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exerting influence over" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the action of having an effect or impact on something or someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

24%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exerting influence over" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for describing the act of affecting something or someone, often with the goal of directing their actions or decisions. As Ludwig AI suggests, while widely applicable, consider more precise verbs like "guiding" or "shaping" for enhanced clarity. Remember to avoid overuse in contexts where a more specific verb might better express the intended method of influence. The phrase's neutral register and common usage across various sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, and The Economist make it a reliable choice for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wielding influence on

Changes the preposition to "on", subtly shifting the emphasis to the target of the influence.

exercising control over

Replaces "influence" with "control", indicating a more direct and forceful impact.

shaping

Suggests a more active role in directing the outcome.

bringing pressure to bear on

Indicates a more forceful and potentially coercive method of influencing.

swaying

Implies persuasion or convincing someone to change their mind.

having an impact on

Less forceful, simply implying an effect without specifying the means.

guiding

Suggests a more subtle and directional form of influence.

affecting

A single-word synonym for having an impact, very concise.

impacting

A more informal and modern synonym for "having an impact on".

dominating

Indicates a more forceful and controlling influence, possibly even oppressive.

FAQs

How can I use "exerting influence over" in a sentence?

You can use "exerting influence over" to describe the act of affecting someone or something, often in a persuasive or controlling manner. For example, "The organization is "exerting influence over" local policies."

What are some alternatives to "exerting influence over"?

You can use alternatives like "exercising control over", "having an impact on", or "wielding influence on" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "exerting influence on" or "exerting influence over"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "exerting influence over" is slightly more common. "Exerting influence on" may be preferred when emphasizing the direct target of the influence.

What does it mean to exert influence?

To exert influence means to use your power, authority, or knowledge to affect or change someone's actions, decisions, or opinions.