influential
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ɪnˈfluːənʧəl/
KK: /ɪnˈfluːənʧəl/
adjective
Definition
Having the power to affect or change someone or something.
Example
Her influential speech inspired many people to take action.
Conversation
Have you read that new book by the influential author?
Yeah, I finished it last week! It was amazing.
I thought the way they discussed social issues was really influential.
Absolutely! It made me think about things in a whole new way.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
powerful
significant
impactful
Antonyms
insignificant
unimportant
weak
noun
Definition
A person who has a lot of power or influence in a particular area, often affecting decisions or opinions.
Example
The influentials in the industry gathered to discuss the future of technology.
Conversation
Have you ever met an influential person in your life?
Yeah, I once had lunch with a famous author; it was amazing!
Wow, I bet they had some great stories to share.
Root Explanation
Influential is formed from "in-" (meaning in or into) and "fluere" (meaning to flow). The word describes something that has the power to flow into or affect others, thereby shaping opinions or actions.
Memory Tip
Think of something that 'flows into' others — 'in-' means in, and 'fluere' means to flow. This helps you remember that 'influential' refers to something that can affect or shape others.
Visually Confused Words
uninfluential
overinfluential
inferential
uninfluentiality
silential