vying for influence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "vying for influence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation where individuals or groups are competing to gain power or control over a particular area or decision-making process. Example: "In the political arena, various factions are vying for influence over the upcoming legislation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

South Africa and Libya are vying for influence on the African stage, each promoting its vision of a resurgent Africa.

The New York Times

Saudi Arabia is one of the main backers of the resistance, which has been vying for influence with Qatar.

The New York Times

How will the White House function with an ex-president and a vice-president vying for influence?

The Economist

But their presence is tempting rival Shia groups, vying for influence, to set up checkpoints of their own.

The Economist

India and Pakistan were both at the meeting, for instance, although they are vying for influence in Afghanistan.

The New York Times

Another group reportedly vying for influence is headed by Pyotr Aven, a former minister who is now president of Alfa-Bank.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Under Mr. Arafat's authoritarian rule, a variety of radical secular and religious groups vie for influence and popularity, often by attacking Israeli targets.

The New York Times

Yet, in the wake of the Second World War, as China and the U.S.S.R. vied for influence in the Korean peninsula, it was just that.

The New Yorker

Nepal's two giant neighbours have historically vied for influence in the Himalayan nation, and both were heavily involved in post-quake rescue and relief efforts.

The Guardian

Other powers now vie for influence: there's a hospital built with Japanese money and construction is under way on a Chinese-funded convention centre.

The Guardian - Travel

Mr. Biden has been chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and he is expected to vie for influence on foreign policy with Hillary Rodham Clinton, the secretary of state-designate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "vying for influence", ensure the context clearly defines what the individuals or groups are competing to influence. Specify the domain, decision, or resource at stake to provide a complete picture.

Common error

Avoid repetitive use of "vying for influence" in close proximity. Vary your language by using synonyms like "competing for control" or "seeking dominance" to maintain reader engagement and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vying for influence" functions as a verbal phrase often used as part of a predicate to describe a competitive action. It indicates that multiple entities are actively competing to exert their impact on something. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "vying for influence" is a commonly used phrase to describe a competitive scenario where entities are attempting to gain control or affect decisions. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and acceptability. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase is generally neutral in register, making it suitable for professional and analytical discussions. While interchangeable with phrases like "competing for control", it's essential to consider the specific nuance you want to convey. For best practice, clearly define the domain of influence when using the phrase and avoid overuse by incorporating synonyms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

competing for control

Focuses specifically on the attempt to gain control, implying a direct contest.

competing for dominance

Focuses on achieving a superior position, suggesting a more aggressive struggle than simply seeking influence.

contending for power

Emphasizes the struggle for control or authority.

battling for supremacy

Highlights a struggle for the highest level of control or authority.

struggling for control

Focuses on the effort to gain control over a situation or entity.

seeking to dominate

Highlights the intention to achieve control, rather than just compete for it.

locked in competition

Describes the state of active rivalry without necessarily implying a pursuit of influence.

jockeying for position

Suggests maneuvering for a better standing, often in a strategic or political context.

fighting for ascendancy

Emphasizes the battle to gain a position of leadership or dominance.

pursuing dominance

Highlights the active chase for a superior position or control.

FAQs

How can I use "vying for influence" in a sentence?

You can use "vying for influence" to describe situations where different entities are competing for power or control. For example, "Several companies are "vying for influence" in the emerging market."

What are some alternatives to "vying for influence"?

Alternatives to "vying for influence" include "competing for control", "seeking dominance", or "contending for power". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "vying to influence" instead of "vying for influence"?

While "vying to influence" might seem grammatically similar, "vying for influence" is the more standard and widely accepted phrase. "Vying to influence" may sound awkward in formal writing.

What's the difference between "vying for influence" and "competing for power"?

"Vying for influence" suggests a competition for the ability to affect decisions or actions, while "competing for power" typically implies a struggle for direct control or authority. Influence is a subtler, less direct form of power.