pernicious influences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pernicious influences" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe harmful or destructive effects that can negatively impact individuals or society. Example: "The media can sometimes propagate pernicious influences that shape public opinion in dangerous ways."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

But alas the Sutherlands have not escaped the pernicious influences of the male-dominated society.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

These are pernicious influences which will eventually completely bring down the ideal of a democracy.

The New York Times

He said the aggressive Islamic ethos could "limit the life chances of the young people in their care and render them more vulnerable to pernicious influences in the future".

The Guardian

The former police officer said he had not sought – or found – evidence of terrorism, but such is the intolerance taught, "it will render the children more vulnerable to pernicious influences in the future".

The Guardian

Whether their motivation reflects a political agenda, a deeply held religious conviction, personal gain or a desire to influence communities, the effect has been to limit the life chances of the young people in their care and to render them more vulnerable to pernicious influences in the future.

The Guardian

By briefly displaying to an audience just one day's crop including, say, drought in Australia, floods in Kenya, an empty dam in Pakistan, a toxic spill in the Yellow river and saltwater contamination in Haiti he can soon show how water may dominate if not destroy lives, especially in poor countries.Some of its most pernicious influences, though, never make the headlines.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Her pernicious influence, not his fundamental incapacity.

The Guardian

If these works have a "pernicious influence" on English-speaking theater, give me "pernicious".

The New York Times

Ewan had quite a pernicious influence on folk music, I think.

The Guardian - Music

Of course, one can't underestimate the pernicious influence of popular culture.

The New York Times

The other, he added, was the "pernicious influence of the Cultural Revolution".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pernicious influences", be specific about what is being influenced and the nature of the harm. This adds clarity and strengthens your argument. For instance, "the pernicious influences of social media on teenage mental health" is more effective than a general statement.

Common error

While "pernicious influences" is a valid phrase, it can sound overly formal or melodramatic in casual conversation. Opt for simpler terms like "harmful effects" or "negative impacts" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pernicious influences" functions as a noun phrase, where "pernicious" acts as a descriptive adjective modifying the noun "influences". It describes the type of influences being discussed, indicating they are harmful or destructive. Ludwig AI validates this usage across its examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "pernicious influences" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to describe harmful and destructive effects, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's most commonly found in news and media, and scientific contexts. While "pernicious" carries a subtle nuance suggesting a gradual or insidious harm, alternative phrases like "harmful effects" or "detrimental impact" can be used depending on the desired emphasis. When using this phrase, specify the nature of the influence and the impacted area to enhance clarity. While appropriate in formal and neutral registers, simpler alternatives are preferable in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

harmful effects

Focuses on the damaging outcomes without necessarily implying a subtle or gradual process.

detrimental impact

Emphasizes the negative consequences and the scope of the effect.

damaging forces

Highlights the active and destructive nature of the agents causing harm.

negative pressures

Suggests external constraints or forces that exert a harmful effect.

adverse impacts

A more formal term that underscores unfavorable or contrary effects.

corrupting influences

Highlights the moral decay or contamination caused by the influences.

unwholesome effects

Focuses on the unhealthy or morally objectionable nature of the effects.

destructive tendencies

Emphasizes the inherent inclination towards causing destruction or harm.

insidious effects

Focuses on how subtly and harmfully something can affect.

toxic environment

Broader term referring to overall harm without specifying individual influences.

FAQs

How can I use "pernicious influences" in a sentence?

You can use "pernicious influences" to describe something that has a gradual and harmful effect. For example, "The "pernicious influences" of misinformation can erode public trust."

What are some alternatives to "pernicious influences"?

Alternatives include "harmful effects", "detrimental impact", or "damaging forces", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What does "pernicious" mean in the context of "pernicious influences"?

In this context, "pernicious" means having a subtly harmful effect, often gradually developing or spreading. It suggests that the influences are not immediately obvious but can be damaging over time.

Is it better to use "pernicious influences" or "negative influences"?

While both are correct, "pernicious influences" carries a stronger connotation of gradual, subtle harm. "Negative influences" is a more general term and may be suitable when the harmful effects are more immediate or obvious.