the most influential

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the most influential" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is the most powerful or impressive of its kind. For example, "In the world of fashion, Coco Chanel is considered the most influential designer of all time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Because they're the most influential".

The New Yorker

The most influential is Dr. Lindzen.

The New York Times - Science

The most influential.

The New York Times

Ernest Hemingway is the most influential.

The Guardian - Books

Just the most influential stylist in fashion.

The New York Times

The most influential was unquestionably Bill Gaskill.

The Guardian

Who has been the most influential figure?

The Guardian

"New York has the most influential businessmen.

The New York Times

One of the most influential is the bond between layers.

Construction and Building Materials

The most influential paper Gerard Salton never wrote.

Cornell University

Read about some of the most influential polling pioneers.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the most influential", ensure that the context clearly establishes the domain or field in which the influence is exerted. For example, "the most influential economist" is more precise than simply "the most influential person."

Common error

Avoid using "the most influential" without providing concrete evidence or examples to support the claim. Ensure your writing includes specific achievements or impacts that justify the assertion of significant influence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the most influential" functions as a superlative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun to indicate that it possesses the greatest degree of influence compared to all others in its category. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the most influential" is a superlative adjective phrase used to describe something or someone that has the greatest impact in a particular context. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Academia. It's important to provide context and evidence to support claims of significant influence. Related phrases include "the most impactful" and "the leading", but these may vary in nuance. Use "the most influential" when you want to highlight unparalleled impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the most impactful

Replaces "influential" with "impactful", emphasizing the effect or consequence rather than the ability to affect.

the leading

More concise, focuses on the aspect of being at the front or head of something.

the foremost

Emphasizes being at the front in terms of importance or position.

the preeminent

Highlights superior excellence or distinction.

the most significant

Focuses on the importance and consequence of the influence.

the most powerful

Highlights the ability to control or affect events.

the highest-ranking

Specifically refers to a hierarchical position of influence.

the top

Informal and brief way to communicate the concept of being the most important.

the most decisive

Highlights the role in making definitive decisions.

the ultimate

Emphasizes the final, unsurpassed nature of the influence.

FAQs

How can I use "the most influential" in a sentence?

You can use "the most influential" to describe someone or something that has had the greatest impact on a particular field or area. For instance, "She was "the most influential" CEO in the tech industry".

What are some alternatives to "the most influential"?

Alternatives include "the most impactful", "the leading", or "the foremost". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "influential" or "the most influential"?

While "influential" suggests a significant impact, ""the most influential"" indicates the greatest impact compared to others. Use ""the most influential"" when you want to emphasize unparalleled impact.

What makes someone "the most influential"?

Someone who is ""the most influential"" typically demonstrates exceptional leadership, innovation, and widespread impact in their field, shaping trends, opinions, or outcomes significantly more than their peers.