wields influence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wields influence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who has the power to affect or control the actions, behaviors, or opinions of others. Example: "The CEO wields influence over the company's direction and decision-making processes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

Some neighborhoods or streets have their own mayor, someone who wields influence, often without fanfare or recognition, and without pay.

The New York Times

Yet there are doubts that Nabucco can secure firm supply contracts in a region where Russia wields influence.

The New York Times

This bid goes to the heart of who wields influence in our media and who is fit to do so.

The Guardian - Opinion

So Maddow's alleging that the Koch brothers run a sprawling and opaque funding apparatus that wields influence across the country?

The Washington Post

"Condé Nast has always had an extraordinary creative leader, someone who wields influence in publishing, media and business," he said.

The New York Times

At the right time and place one person with a camera-phone wields influence once reserved for elites.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

So why do they still wield influence?

The New York Times

Many are continuing to wield influence.

The New York Times

They also wield influence in Congress.

The Economist

He also wielded influence as a teacher.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He complained about other countries' wielding influence in the talks.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "wields influence" when you want to highlight the active and sometimes intentional exertion of power or control.

Common error

Avoid using "wields influence" when describing minor or indirect effects. The phrase suggests a significant and noticeable level of control or impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wields influence" functions as a verb phrase indicating the exercise of power or control. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is commonly used to describe individuals, organizations, or entities that have the ability to affect outcomes or opinions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "wields influence" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe the exercise of power or control. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as formal business settings. While alternatives like "exerts authority" or "holds sway" exist, "wields influence" effectively conveys the active and intentional application of power. When using this phrase, be specific about the scope and nature of the influence being exerted to avoid overstating its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

holds sway

Suggests a persuasive or dominant influence, particularly over opinions or sentiments.

has dominance

Emphasizes a position of clear superiority and command over others or a situation.

exerts authority

Focuses on the formal right to give commands and enforce obedience, implying a more official power dynamic.

exercises control

Emphasizes the act of managing or directing something, often in a practical or direct manner.

maintains control

Highlights the continuous effort to keep influence in place, underlining its volatile aspect.

carries weight

Indicates that someone's opinion or position is significant and impactful.

exerts pressure

Highlights the use of persuasive or coercive tactics to achieve a desired outcome.

commands respect

Focuses on the admiration and deference that someone receives, leading to influence.

shapes outcomes

Focuses on the direct contribution to the result of actions and decision making, underlining the final impact.

governs actions

Suggests the capacity to control or direct events, people's conduct and behavior, often through implicit but authoritative rules.

FAQs

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

You can use "wields influence" to describe someone or something that has the power to affect or control the actions, decisions, or opinions of others. For example, "The senator "wields influence" over key legislation."

What are some alternatives to "wields influence"?

Alternatives to "wields influence" include "exerts authority", "holds sway", or "exercises control", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "wields influence" or "has influence"?

"Wields influence" suggests a more active and deliberate use of power or control, while "has influence" simply indicates the presence of influence. The best choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the active exertion of power.

What's the difference between "wields influence" and "exerts influence"?

The phrases "wields influence" and "exerts influence" are largely synonymous and can often be used interchangeably. "Exerts influence" might suggest a more direct and forceful application of power, while "wields influence" can imply a more skillful or strategic use of power.