What is influence? Pronunciation and usage in English

influence means . Learn how to pronounce and use influence through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of influence

influencenoun/verb

/ˈɪnflʊəns/
Definition & pronunciation of influence

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "influence" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Sounds:

  • ih- – Like the "i" in "bit" or "sit"
  • n- – As in “no”
  • fluh- – This is where it gets tricky. It’s a diphthong (a combination of two vowel sounds). It starts like the “flo” in “flow” and then moves up a little bit.
  • -ence – This is pronounced like "ens" as in "sense"

2. Putting it Together:

The whole word is pronounced something like: ih-nˈfluh-əns

3. Key Tips & Breakdown:

  • Stress: The stress is on the second syllable: "fluh."
  • The "fluh" sound: This is the most challenging part. Try saying "flo" and then adding a slightly higher pitch and a little more forward movement of your tongue. It's not just "flue."
  • The “ə” sound: This is the “schwa” sound – a very reduced, neutral vowel sound. It’s like the “a” in “about” or “so.” It’s short and relaxed.

4. Resources to Help You Hear It:

  • Google Search: Simply search "how to pronounce influence" on Google and you'll find audio examples.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/influence/ - This website has pronunciations by native speakers from different regions.
  • YouTube: Search YouTube for "how to pronounce influence" – you'll find many pronunciation guides.

To help me give you even more tailored guidance, could you tell me:

  • Are you a native English speaker, or are you learning? (This helps me understand where you might be struggling.)
  • What specifically about the pronunciation is difficult for you? (Is it the ‘fluh’ sound, the stress, or something else?)

Usage and examples with the word influence in English

Let's break down how to use the word "influence" effectively in English. It's a versatile word with slightly different nuances, so understanding how to use it correctly is important.

1. Core Meaning: To Have an Effect on

At its most basic, "influence" means to have an effect on someone or something. It suggests a subtle or indirect impact, rather than a forceful command.

  • Example: "The teacher's passion for history influenced her students to read more about the past." (The teacher's enthusiasm encouraged them.)
  • Example: "The weather influenced our decision to stay home." (The weather condition affected our choice.)

2. Different Ways to Use "Influence"

Here's a breakdown of how you can use "influence" in various contexts:

  • As a Verb (action): This is the most common usage. It describes the act of affecting something.
    • Positive Influence: "Her kindness influenced many people to volunteer."
    • Negative Influence: "Smoking has a harmful influence on your health."
    • Subtle Influence: “The movie subtly influenced his views on politics.”
  • As a Noun (the ability to affect): This refers to the power or capacity to affect something.
    • “She has a lot of influence in the business world.” (She's powerful and respected.)
    • “The media's influence on public opinion is significant.” (The media has a strong impact on what people think.)
  • Phrases with "Influence":
    • Under influence: Affected by someone or something (often unconsciously). "He was under the influence of alcohol."
    • To exert influence: To actively try to affect something. "The CEO exerted influence on the board's decision."
    • Have an influence: "Her art had an influence on a whole generation of artists."
    • Positive influence: Encouraging good behavior or ideas.
    • Negative influence: Encouraging bad behavior or ideas.

3. Distinguishing "Influence" from Similar Words

  • Influence is often gentler and less direct than words like "control," "command," or "dominate."
  • Impact: "Impact" describes a more immediate and significant effect. (e.g., "The new law impacted the economy.")
  • Affect: "Affect" is often used as a verb to mean "to influence," but it can also be a noun referring to a feeling or emotion. (e.g., "The news affected her deeply.")

4. Grammar Points

  • "Influence" is usually uncountable: You don’t say “many influences.” You say “a lot of influence.” (You can use it in a countable sense to refer to specific types of influence – e.g., "sources of influence.")
  • Prepositions: Often used with "on": "The media influenced public opinion on climate change."

5. Examples in Different Sentences

  • "The celebrity's lifestyle choices influenced the fashion trends."
  • "His grandfather's experiences influenced his career path."
  • "Social media can influence people’s perceptions of reality."
  • "The coach's encouragement influenced the team to play their best."
  • “Advertising seeks to influence consumer behavior.”

To help me give you even more specific advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about? (e.g., writing an essay, speaking in a meeting, casual conversation?)
  • Is there a particular situation you'd like to use "influence" in?

Synonyms for the word influence

Idioms of the word influence

under the influence
having had too much alcohol to drink
  • She was charged with driving under the influence.
  • He was arrested for driving under the influence.

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