holds influence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "holds influence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to describe a person or entity that has significant power over a given situation. For example, "The president of the company holds influence over the decisions of its board of directors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Chiang Mai is ruled by the kind of old-style clique -- Mr. Amnat calls it a mafia -- that still holds influence throughout much of Thailand.

The New York Times

Representatives Nancy Pelosi and Steny Hoyer spoke and, in so doing, pointed to the extent to which the movement now holds influence within the establishment.

The New Yorker

It is more likely to be sanctioned by Donald Trump, whose administration is convinced that Tehran is mounting a strategic play to take over the country in the same way that it holds influence in Lebanon.

The Guardian

The Expert: This person holds influence because of their competence in a certain area.

Forbes

That Iran holds influence in Syria isn't necessarily breaking news "I know all about that," Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz). said Wednesday -- but the documents could become a useful tool for bolstering skepticism among policymakers and the public towards Iran.

Huffington Post

His ongoing fascination with synesthesia the phenomenon in which one sense's stimulation produces another experience in a completely different sense—holds influence now just as it did when he created a real-time music visualizer, or invited users with basic coding knowledge to create their own animated typefaces.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Or must we too be victims of his marital indiscretions before we hold influence?

The Guardian - Opinion

She didn't know who held influence, so she hedged her bets and played for time.

The Guardian

What they found was that at least one celebrity does hold influence in the voting booth: Oprah Winfrey.

The New York Times

In fact, Russia has long held influence in the Caspian region and wants to tap natural gas there, too.

The New York Times

But Russia has long held influence in the Caspian region and wants to tap natural gas there, too.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "holds influence", consider the specific type and extent of influence being exerted. Be precise about who or what is being influenced, and the context in which this influence is relevant.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the level of influence. Ensure that the evidence supports the claim that someone or something "holds influence" rather than merely having a potential impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "holds influence" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun, indicating the possession and potential application of power or control. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. The examples provided by Ludwig showcase its application across various domains.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "holds influence" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe the capacity to affect decisions or actions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and business. When writing, ensure that the level of influence claimed is supported by evidence and be mindful of the specific context to choose the most fitting alternative, such as "exerts influence" or "wields power". By understanding the nuances of this phrase and its alternatives, writers can effectively communicate the dynamics of power and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exerts influence

Focuses on the active application of influence, suggesting a more direct and intentional action.

wields power

Emphasizes the possession and utilization of power, often in a more formal or authoritative context.

carries weight

Highlights the importance or significance that someone's opinion or position holds.

has sway over

Indicates the ability to persuade or control someone's decisions or actions.

affects decisions

Focuses on the direct impact on decision-making processes.

impacts outcomes

Highlights the effect on the final results or consequences.

shapes opinions

Emphasizes the ability to mold or influence people's beliefs and views.

dominates thinking

Suggests a more forceful or pervasive influence that controls the direction of thought.

commands respect

Highlights that someone's influence stems from the respect they garner.

exercises control

Focuses on the act of maintaining authority and direction.

FAQs

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

You can use "holds influence" to describe someone or something that has a significant impact or power over others or a situation. For example, "The CEO "holds influence" over the company's strategic decisions".

What are some alternatives to saying "holds influence"?

Alternatives include phrases like "exerts influence", "wields power", or "has sway over", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

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

"Holds influence" and "has influence" are both grammatically correct, but "holds influence" often suggests a more active or sustained level of control or impact compared to simply "has influence".

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

"Holds influence" implies the capacity to affect something, while "exerts influence" suggests the active application of that capacity. Someone who "holds influence" may not always be actively using it, whereas someone who "exerts influence" is actively trying to shape outcomes.