wield influence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wield influence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to mean someone, typically with authority, is having a strong effect on someone or something else. For example, you could say: "The Prime Minister wields considerable influence over policy decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

So why do they still wield influence?

The New York Times

They also wield influence in Congress.

The Economist

Many are continuing to wield influence.

The New York Times

But if he fails, he will still wield influence.

The New York Times

Some outsiders, particularly America and China, wield influence in Khartoum.

The Economist

The Democratic-controlled Senate can wield influence in other areas.

The New York Times

That means that roughly the same swing states have continued to wield influence.

The New York Times

He said the best way for Ukip to wield influence was having MPs in Westminster.

The Guardian

"Largely unknown, these are people who really wield influence behind the old men," he said.

The New York Times

But he has said he intends to continue to wield influence after he leaves office.

The New York Times

He is back in the hearts and minds of people who make decisions and wield influence.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "wield influence", consider the specific type of influence being exerted and the context in which it occurs. This will help you choose the most precise and impactful language.

Common error

While "wield influence" is generally appropriate, avoid using it excessively in informal settings. Simpler alternatives like "have an impact" or "affect" may be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wield influence" functions as a verb phrase, where "wield" is the verb and "influence" is the noun object. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct, and the examples from Ludwig show it's generally used to describe actively exerting power or control.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wield influence" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase that describes the active exertion of power or control. As per Ludwig AI, it’s correct and found across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Business, and Academic writing. When crafting your content, consider more informal alternatives such as "have impact" in casual conversations. Understanding these nuances ensures that your writing is both precise and contextually appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise control

This phrase highlights the act of managing and directing something.

exert authority

This phrase emphasizes the formal power or right to give orders and enforce obedience.

carry weight

This suggests that someone's opinions or actions are considered important and impactful.

have sway

This alternative indicates a more subtle form of influence, often based on persuasion or charm.

have leverage

This alternative focuses on having an advantage that allows one to influence a situation.

hold power

This focuses on the possession of control or authority, rather than the act of using it.

shape opinions

This denotes the ability to mold or direct the views of others.

pull strings

This means to use one's influence behind the scenes, often secretly.

command respect

This phrase means to have an important influence because people admire you.

dominate proceedings

This alternative indicates taking the lead or superior position during an event.

FAQs

How can I use "wield influence" in a sentence?

You can use "wield influence" to describe someone or something that has a significant impact or control over a situation or group. For example, "The senator "wields considerable influence" over the committee's decisions."

What are some alternatives to saying "wield influence"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "exert authority", "exercise control", or "have sway".

Is it better to say "wield influence" or "exercise influence"?

Both "wield influence" and "exercise influence" are correct and usable. "Wield" often suggests a more direct and powerful application of influence.

What's the difference between "wield influence" and "have influence"?

"Have influence" simply indicates that someone possesses influence. "Wield influence" implies the active use of that influence to achieve a specific outcome. The former is passive, the latter is active.