is under the influence of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is under the influence of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being affected by something, often in the context of substances or external factors impacting behavior or decision-making. Example: "He is under the influence of alcohol, which is why he is acting so erratically."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The store is under the influence of different minds and different affinities.

The New Yorker

The internal environment of the body is under the influence of both external and internal conditions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For that matter, the entire set is under the influence of Parker, even as that visionary musician liberated the inspirations and the individuality of a generation.

The New Yorker

Now Gordita Beach is under the influence of Uranus, "the planet of rude surprises" and Doc wafts about on karmic thermals like a "patchouli fart".

The Guardian - Film

At the outset, I want to say that the suggestion that the struggle in South Africa is under the influence of foreigners or communists is wholly incorrect.

The Guardian

At the outset, I want to say that the suggestion made by the state in its opening that the struggle in South Africa is under the influence of foreigners or communists is wholly incorrect.

The Guardian

Additionally, there is "Under the Influence of Busby Berkeley," a free discussion by the choreographer and filmmaker Kriota Willberg, who will illustrate how Berkeley's style has continued to infiltrate media culture.

The New York Times - Arts

"By using their imperialistic media network which is under the influence of colonialism, they threaten anyone who questions the Holocaust and the September 11 event with sanctions and military actions," he said.

The Guardian

Men, who suffer disproportionately from hair loss, may also produce more sebum than women with hair loss do, because production is under the influence of male sex hormones, especially testosterone.

The New York Times

"By using their imperialistic media network which is under the influence of colonialism, they threaten anyone who questions the Holocaust and the September 11 event with sanctions and military actions," said Ahmadinejad.

The Guardian

"Polygamist as he professes to be," fumed Ann Eliza Young, restive wife No. 19, "he is, under the influence of Amelia, rapidly becoming a monogamist, in all except the name".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a situation where someone's judgment is impaired, use "is under the influence of" to clearly convey that their actions might not be entirely rational or controlled. Ensure that the context clarifies what or who is exerting the influence.

Common error

While acceptable, the phrase "is under the influence of" can sound informal in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise language like "is affected by" or "is governed by" to maintain a professional tone, depending on the nuance you want to express.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is under the influence of" functions as a predicate adjective phrase. It describes the state of a subject as being affected or controlled by an external force, substance, or person. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

59%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is under the influence of" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe the condition of being affected or controlled by something, as validated by Ludwig AI. Its usage spans across diverse fields like news, science, and general knowledge, highlighting its versatility. While perfectly acceptable in most contexts, more precise language may be preferable for formal or academic writing. Understanding when to use it and what alternatives exist ensures clear and effective communication. Consider the subtle nuances of related phrases such as ""is affected by"" or ""is subject to"" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is affected by

Focuses on the impact or effect rather than the control aspect.

is subject to

Emphasizes the condition of being acted upon or controlled by an external force or factor.

is controlled by

Highlights the aspect of being managed or directed by someone or something.

is governed by

Suggests a formal or structured control or regulation.

is dictated by

Implies that something is determined or prescribed by a specific rule or authority.

is swayed by

Focuses on the persuasive or influencing power affecting one's opinion or action.

is responsive to

Indicates a reaction or change in response to an external stimulus.

is molded by

Conveys the idea of being shaped or formed by an external influence over time.

is at the mercy of

Emphasizes vulnerability and lack of control over a situation or factor.

is susceptible to

Highlights the proneness or vulnerability to be affected by something, often negative.

FAQs

How can I use "is under the influence of" in a sentence?

You can use "is under the influence of" to describe someone or something being affected by external factors. For example, "The decision "is under the influence of" political pressure" or "He "is under the influence of" medication".

What are some alternatives to "is under the influence of"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "is affected by", "is subject to", or "is controlled by".

When is it appropriate to use "is under the influence of"?

It's appropriate when describing a state of being affected or controlled by something, whether it's a substance, an emotion, or an external factor. It's often used in situations where judgment or behavior is altered.

What's the difference between "is under the influence of" and "is affected by"?

"Is under the influence of" often implies a temporary state where judgment or behavior is altered, particularly by substances. "Is affected by" is a more general term that can describe any kind of impact, whether temporary or permanent.