gained influence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gained influence" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means that someone or something has acquired or obtained power, control, or authority over others. Example: In the past few years, social media platforms have gained influence over political discourse and public opinion.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

As M.B.S. gained influence in the kingdom, he and M.B.Z.

The New Yorker

Other justices have gained influence through intellectual combat and commitment to a judicial philosophy.

The New York Times

Over the decade that followed, Anwar and Mahathir steadily gained influence.

The New Yorker

Lack's research has gradually gained influence with leading allergists, including Hugh Sampson.

The New Yorker

"Understandably, as we have gained influence, that decision has become more difficult.

The New Yorker

As the charities gained influence, American officials watched with little concern -- and indeed, with approval.

The New York Times

Mao Zedong was a good man until his wife, Jiang Qing, gained influence.

The New Yorker

How had baboons gained influence over the education of Ghanaian children?

The New Yorker

As "fun" gained influence, mentions of "pleasure" fell by a factor of four.

The New York Times

But now, having gained influence, it may be time that the field reconsiders.

The New York Times

Others voice bitterness over rigid dress codes imposed by Islamists who gained influence after the 1994 civil war.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gained influence", consider specifying the area or group over which influence was gained to provide more context and clarity. For example, "The company gained influence in the Asian market."

Common error

Avoid using "gained influence" without clearly identifying who or what facilitated the increase in power or control. Instead of saying "He gained influence", specify "He gained influence through his strategic partnerships."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gained influence" functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of acquiring power or control. It is commonly used to describe how individuals, organizations, or concepts achieve a position of greater authority. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage, supported by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

8%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gained influence" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase that describes the process of acquiring power or control. As Ludwig AI points out, it appears frequently in news and media, science, and encyclopedias, demonstrating its versatility across different registers. When using "gained influence", specify the area or group over which influence was gained to enhance clarity, and remember to attribute the source of influence to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "won influence" or "acquired sway" can add nuance depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

won influence

Similar meaning, but emphasizes the act of winning or achieving influence through effort or competition.

acquired sway

Replaces "influence" with "sway", suggesting a more subtle or persuasive form of influence.

obtained leverage

"Leverage" suggests a more strategic or tactical type of influence, often used in negotiations or power dynamics.

increased authority

Focuses specifically on gaining formal or recognized authority, rather than general influence.

expanded reach

Implies that the influence has grown in scope or extent, affecting a larger audience or area.

risen in prominence

Highlights the increase in visibility and importance, suggesting a more public or recognized form of influence.

developed impact

Emphasizes the creation or growth of a significant effect or impact on something.

asserted control

Suggests a more forceful or direct acquisition of control, rather than a gradual gaining of influence.

established dominance

Indicates a more complete or overwhelming form of influence, implying a position of power over others.

cultivated connections

Focuses on building relationships that lead to influence, emphasizing networking and social capital.

FAQs

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

You can use "gained influence" to describe an increase in someone's or something's power. For example, "Social media has "gained influence" in political campaigns."

What can I say instead of "gained influence"?

You can use alternatives like "won influence", "acquired sway", or "increased authority" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "gained influence" or "obtained influence"?

Both "gained influence" and "obtained influence" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice depends on stylistic preference, although "gained influence" is slightly more common.

What is the difference between "gained influence" and "exerted influence"?

"Gained influence" describes the process of acquiring power or control, while "exerted influence" refers to actively using that power to affect a situation or decision. One is acquisition, the other is application.