The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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influential

adjective

/ɪnfluenʃəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of influential

Having the power, ability, or impact to affect the thoughts, actions, or opinions of others.
"The Beatles are often cited as one of the most influential bands in the history of music."

Detailed meaning of influential

It signifies a significant role or importance in shaping or directing outcomes, decisions, or trends. An influential individual possesses qualities, expertise, or credibility that allows them to sway the beliefs or behaviors of others. They may have a strong persuasive ability, leadership skills, or a wide-reaching platform that garners attention and respect. Similarly, an influential idea, concept, or movement carries weight and inspires change or adaptation within a society or field. Being influential implies a capacity to make a lasting impression, initiate shifts in thinking or behavior, and contribute to the overall direction of a particular domain. Influential figures and ideas have the potential to leave a mark on history, leave a legacy, and leave an indelible impact on the world around them.

Example sentences containing influential

1. He became an influential leader, inspiring a wave of innovative changes globally.
2. Influential authors shape societal norms with their thought-provoking writings.
3. His influential speech on unity transcended borders, touching millions worldwide.
4. As an influential artist, her work sparked a new movement in modern art.
5. Influential films often mirror and mold the societal attitudes of their times.
6. Her words, though soft, held an influential echo that reached distant hearts.

History and etymology of influential

The adjective 'influential' is closely tied to the noun 'influence' and shares its etymological origins. It is derived from the Latin word 'influentialis,' which is formed from 'influentia,' itself derived from 'influere.' 'Influere' combines 'in' (meaning 'in' or 'into') and 'fluere' (meaning 'to flow'). Therefore, the etymology of 'influential' essentially means 'pertaining to the act of flowing into' or 'having the ability to flow into or affect something or someone.' Originally, it was associated with the idea of celestial forces or powers that could flow into and shape human destinies. Over time, the term evolved to describe individuals, ideas, or factors that possess the power, ability, or impact to affect the thoughts, actions, or opinions of others, highlighting their capacity to 'flow into' and shape the perceptions and decisions of those they influence.

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Further usage examples of influential

1. Among influential figures, his innovative ideas stood out, crafting a new era.
2. This book, penned by an influential writer, shifted my perspective entirely.
3. Influential teachers can ignite a lifelong passion for learning in their students.
4. His influential theories on space-time continue to shape modern physics.
5. That influential moment in history marked a turning point for civil rights.
6. Influential critics can uplift or undermine a film's reception and success.
7. In the realm of science, few were as influential as Marie Curie.
8. Influential ads not only sell products but also the lifestyles that accompany them.
9. Being influential isn't about power but the positive impact made on lives.
10. She's an influential voice in politics, advocating for equality and justice.
11. Influential music can transport us to different eras, places, and emotional states.
12. His influential designs in architecture introduced a fresh, sustainable approach.
13. As an influential chef, her innovative recipes transformed culinary arts.
14. Influential podcasts offer insights that can shift our understanding of the world.
15. Marie Curie was an influential scientist who made groundbreaking discoveries in radioactivity.
16. Mahatma Gandhi's non-violent approach to civil rights has remained influential in movements around the world.
17. His influential book changed the way people think about economics.
18. Steve Jobs was an influential figure in the technology industry, co-founding Apple Inc.
19. The influential teacher inspired generations of students to pursue their dreams.
20. The magazine annually publishes a list of the 100 most influential people in the world.
21. Nelson Mandela’s role in ending apartheid in South Africa made him an influential leader.
22. Picasso's innovative techniques made him an influential painter in 20th-century art.
23. The internet has been one of the most influential innovations in modern history.
24. Malala Yousafzai is an influential advocate for girls' education and women's rights worldwide.