exerts influence

USAGE SUMMARY

"exerts influence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a person or thing that has an effect on other people or events. For example, "The new president of the company exerts a strong influence over the strategic decisions made by the board."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But Russia exerts influence over its neighbors through other means.

The New York Times

How he exerts influence will shape the Brexit battle.

The New York Times

Archives|PRO BASKETBALL; Agent Exerts Influence On Talks With N.B.A. PRO BASKETBALL; Agent Exerts Influence On Talks With N.B.A.

The New York Times - Sports

Through his decisions, he exerts influence on many businesses, particularly those in banking and finance.

The New York Times

This attitude is encouraged by the FBI which exerts influence to keep IACP activities restricted.

The New Yorker

A look at where Iran exerts influence across the region and at the emerging Saudi coalition.

The New York Times

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

University of California, Berkeley

Decadal variability in both the North and South Atlantic also exerts influence on the Amazon's climate.

Columbia University

Senior Bush Administration officials are frustrated that Mr. Hussein is on the loose and still exerts influence in Iraq.

The New York Times

Climate change exerts influence on the globe over relatively long temporal and at broad spatial scales.

Global Environmental Change

The gritty financial engine of the new Brazil, São Paulo exerts influence over commerce, media and culture.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exerts influence", specify the area or entity being influenced to provide clarity and context. For example, "The organization exerts influence on environmental policy."

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the extent of the influence exerted. Instead of saying "completely controls", opt for a more accurate description like "significantly shapes" or "substantially affects" when describing how something "exerts influence".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exerts influence" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the action of actively affecting or impacting something or someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates a deliberate application of power or persuasive force.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

32%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exerts influence" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes the active application of power or impact. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. Its prominence in news, scientific, and academic sources indicates its suitability for formal contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the subject and object of influence. While effective, be mindful of overstating the degree of influence and consider alternatives like "wields power" or "exercises authority" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

holds sway

Emphasizes persuasive power or control over something.

exerts control

Highlights the act of maintaining dominance or regulation.

carries weight

Indicates importance or significance in a particular context.

wields power

Focuses on the capacity to control or affect someone or something.

impacts decisions

Directly relates to influencing choices or judgments.

exercises authority

Emphasizes the formal right to control or command.

shapes opinions

Concentrates on the formation or alteration of beliefs.

affects outcomes

Centers on the result or consequence of an action.

dominates affairs

Implies a commanding position in a situation or area.

governs actions

Suggests a guiding or regulatory effect on behavior.

FAQs

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

You can use "exerts influence" to describe someone or something that has an impact on others or events. For example, "The media "exerts influence" on public opinion."

What are some alternatives to "exerts influence"?

Alternatives include phrases like "wields power", "exercises authority", or "exerts control", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "exerts influence" or "has influence"?

"Exerts influence" suggests a more active and deliberate application of power or impact, while "has influence" is a more general statement of possessing influence. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the active use of influence or simply its presence.

What's the difference between "exerts influence" and "exerts impact"?

"Exerts influence" implies affecting opinions, behaviors, or policies, while "exerts impact" suggests a more direct effect on outcomes or results. While both are similar, "exerts influence" is often used in more abstract or social contexts.