influence the process

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "influence the process" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing how one factor or element can affect or change a particular procedure or series of actions. Example: "The new regulations are expected to significantly influence the process of product development in our company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sometimes audiences influence the process.

The New York Times

"Polluters are still going to fight to influence the process".

The New Yorker

"Did acting influence the process of directing?" Lazarus asked.

The New Yorker

Channel 4 and Optomen also strongly deny any attempt to influence the process.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Mr. Buhler said he knew of no effort by the church to influence the process.

The New York Times

A community's own ideas about a crime like domestic violence will naturally influence the process.

The Guardian - Opinion

By covering the points above, you will certainly help influence the process in your favour.

The Guardian

ICTs need the authority to influence the process.

Journal of Hospital Infection

Across the board, the military pledged their preference for US equipment but professed an inability to influence the process.

The Guardian

They must keep their heads in the content and not worry about or unduly influence the process.

Harvard Business Review

Although the daughter's expertise and research efforts may influence the process, she may not be the key decision maker.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "influence the process", consider specifying the method or degree of influence for clarity. For example, specify whether the influence is direct, indirect, positive, or negative to provide more context.

Common error

Avoid using "influence the process" when the action completely dictates the outcome. "Influence" implies a partial effect, so use stronger verbs like "determine" or "control" if the action fully decides the process's result.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "influence the process" functions as a verb phrase where "influence" acts as a transitive verb taking "the process" as its direct object. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes the act of exerting an effect on a particular procedure or series of actions, guiding or altering its course.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Science & Research

2%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "influence the process" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of affecting a procedure or course of action. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase sees frequent use in various contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings. While synonymous alternatives like "affect the process" and "shape the process" exist, "influence the process" maintains a neutral register and wide applicability. When employing this phrase, consider specifying the nature and extent of the influence for enhanced clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Affect the process

Replaces "influence" with "affect", a direct synonym, maintaining the same grammatical structure and meaning.

Impact the process

Substitutes "influence" with "impact", emphasizing the effect on the process.

Shape the process

Replaces "influence" with "shape", focusing on the act of forming or guiding the process.

Control the process

Substitutes "influence" with "control", implying a greater degree of authority over the process.

Guide the process

Replaces "influence" with "guide", suggesting a directional or advisory role.

Direct the process

Similar to 'guide', but suggests a more hands-on approach.

Have a bearing on the process

Uses a more formal and idiomatic expression to indicate influence.

Play a role in the process

Focuses on the contribution or part played in affecting the process.

Determine the process

Indicates a conclusive effect on the process, rather than just an influence.

Leave its mark on the process

Figurative language, connoting indelible impact.

FAQs

How can I use "influence the process" in a sentence?

You can use "influence the process" to describe how something affects a series of actions or a procedure. For example: "Public opinion can significantly influence the process of policy making."

What's a simple way to say "influence the process"?

You could use "affect the process" or "impact the process" as more direct alternatives.

Is it better to say "influence the process" or "impact the process"?

Both "influence the process" and "impact the process" are acceptable. "Influence" suggests a more subtle effect, while "impact" implies a stronger or more noticeable effect.

How does "influence the process" differ from "control the process"?

"Influence the process" means to have some effect on the outcome, while "control the process" means to have the power to determine the outcome.