Top 29 Slang For Influence – Meaning & Usage

In an age where social media and online platforms hold immense power, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest slang for influence. Whether you’re a social media marketer, an aspiring influencer, or simply curious about the language of influence, this listicle is for you. We’ve scoured the internet to bring you the most buzzworthy and impactful slang terms that will help you navigate the world of influence like a pro. Get ready to level up your game and make an impact with this essential guide to slang for influence.

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1. Street cred

This term refers to a person’s reputation or respect within a particular community, especially in urban or street culture. It implies that the person has earned recognition and influence through their actions or associations.

For example, a rapper might say, “I’ve got street cred because I grew up in the hood.”
In a conversation about hip-hop culture, someone might comment, “He’s got street cred because he’s worked with some of the biggest names in the industry.”
A person might try to establish their street cred by saying, “I’ve been through a lot and come out on top. That’s why people respect me.”

2. Swagger

Swagger refers to a person’s confident and stylish demeanor. It implies that the person has a certain charisma and presence that commands attention and respect from others.

For instance, a fashion enthusiast might say, “She’s got so much swagger. Everything she wears looks amazing on her.”
In a discussion about sports, someone might comment, “He plays with swagger. You can tell he’s confident in his abilities.”
A person might describe themselves by saying, “I walk with swagger because I know who I am and what I’m capable of.”

3. Game

In the context of influence, “game” refers to a person’s ability to navigate social situations and exert influence over others. It implies that the person has developed certain skills and strategies to achieve their desired outcomes.

For example, a pickup artist might say, “I’ve got game. I know how to approach women and make them interested.”
In a discussion about business, someone might comment, “He’s got game. He knows how to negotiate and close deals.”
A person might reflect on their own abilities by saying, “I’ve been working on my game and I’ve seen a lot of improvement in my interactions with others.”

4. Connect

In the context of influence, “connect” refers to the act of establishing relationships or making valuable connections with influential individuals. It implies that the person has the ability to network and build mutually beneficial relationships.

For instance, a businessperson might say, “I need to connect with more industry leaders to expand my network.”
In a conversation about social media, someone might comment, “She’s got a lot of connections. She knows all the right people.”
A person might express their desire to connect with others by saying, “I want to meet new people and build meaningful relationships. I know it can help me in my career.”

5. Stroke

In the context of influence, “stroke” refers to the act of flattering or manipulating others to gain favor or influence over them. It implies that the person knows how to appeal to others’ egos or desires in order to achieve their own goals.

For example, a politician might say, “He knows how to stroke people’s egos to get their support.”
In a discussion about sales tactics, someone might comment, “She’s a master at stroking customers’ desires and convincing them to buy.”
A person might reflect on their own abilities by saying, “I’ve learned how to stroke people’s egos when I need something from them. It’s a useful skill to have.”

6. Say

This slang term is used to encourage someone to voice their opinion or share their thoughts.

For example, if someone is being quiet in a group discussion, someone might say, “Come on, don’t be afraid to say what you think.”
In a meeting, a manager might say, “I want everyone to have a chance to say their piece.”
A friend might ask you, “What do you say we go out for dinner tonight?”

7. Dominate

To dominate means to have power or control over a situation or to be the most influential person in a group.

For instance, in a sports game, one team might dominate the other by scoring multiple goals.
In a business setting, a CEO might strive to dominate the market by outperforming competitors.
A person might say, “I want to dominate my field and become the best in my industry.”

8. Boss

In slang terms, “boss” refers to someone who is in charge or has a high level of influence or control.

For example, a manager might be referred to as the “boss” of a team.
In a group of friends, someone might say, “She’s the boss when it comes to planning parties.”
A person might describe someone as a “boss” if they are confident and assertive.

9. Heavyweight

A “heavyweight” is someone who carries a lot of influence or power in a particular field or industry.

For instance, in politics, a heavyweight might be a well-known and influential politician.
In the entertainment industry, a heavyweight could be a highly successful and influential actor or director.
A person might say, “He’s a heavyweight in the tech world, everyone knows his name.”

10. Bigwig

A “bigwig” is a slang term used to describe someone who holds a high position of power or influence.

For example, in a company, the CEO might be referred to as a bigwig.
In politics, a bigwig could be a high-ranking government official.
A person might say, “She’s a bigwig in the fashion industry, her designs are worn by celebrities.”

11. Cred

This term refers to the level of trust and believability that someone has. It is often used to describe someone who is influential and respected in a particular field or community.

For example, “He has a lot of cred in the music industry because of his successful career.”
In a discussion about reliable sources, someone might say, “Only cite information from sources with cred.”
A person might compliment someone’s persuasive skills by saying, “You really know how to build cred with your audience.”

12. Command

This term refers to the ability to control and influence others. It is often used to describe someone who has a strong presence and can make others follow their lead.

For instance, “She has a commanding presence that demands attention.”
In a discussion about leadership, someone might say, “A good leader knows how to command respect.”
A person might admire someone’s ability to take charge by saying, “He really knows how to command a room.”

13. Dominance

This term refers to the state of being in control or having power over others. It is often used to describe someone who is influential and can assert their authority.

For example, “He exudes dominance in the business world.”
In a discussion about competition, someone might say, “To succeed, you need to establish dominance in your industry.”
A person might praise someone’s ability to take control by saying, “She knows how to assert dominance in any situation.”

14. Gravitas

This term refers to a sense of seriousness, importance, and weightiness. It is often used to describe someone who carries themselves with authority and has a significant impact on others.

For instance, “His gravitas commands attention and respect.”
In a discussion about public speaking, someone might say, “To captivate an audience, you need to speak with gravitas.”
A person might admire someone’s ability to project a sense of importance by saying, “She has such gravitas in her presence.”

15. Magnetism

This term refers to the ability to attract and influence others. It is often used to describe someone who has a captivating and charming presence.

For example, “He has a magnetic personality that draws people in.”
In a discussion about leadership, someone might say, “A good leader has a natural magnetism that inspires others.”
A person might compliment someone’s ability to connect with others by saying, “She has such magnetism in her interactions.”

16. Persuasion

The act of influencing or convincing others to adopt a certain belief, take a specific action, or change their behavior. Persuasion can involve logical arguments, emotional appeals, or manipulation tactics.

For example, a salesperson might use persuasion techniques to convince a customer to buy a product.
In a political campaign, candidates use persuasion to win over voters and gain their support.
A person might say, “She has a natural talent for persuasion. She can convince anyone to see things her way.”

17. Weight

Refers to the influence or significance of a person, idea, or action. It can also indicate the power or authority someone holds in a particular context.

For instance, a CEO’s opinion carries a lot of weight in a company’s decision-making process.
In a group discussion, someone might say, “Let’s consider his opinion. He carries a lot of weight in this industry.”
A person might argue, “The weight of scientific evidence supports the theory of climate change.”

18. Supremacy

The state of being supreme or having ultimate power, authority, or control over others. It implies being at the top or in a position of dominance.

For example, a country that has military supremacy is considered the most powerful and dominant.
In a sports context, a team that consistently wins championships can be seen as having supremacy over other teams.
A person might say, “He strives for supremacy in everything he does. He always wants to be the best.”

19. Ascendancy

Refers to the state of rising to a position of power, authority, or influence. It implies a gradual increase in control or dominance.

For instance, a political party that gains more seats in an election can be said to have ascendancy.
In a business context, a company that gains market share and surpasses its competitors is said to be in ascendancy.
A person might comment, “Her ascendancy in the music industry has been remarkable. She went from an unknown artist to a global superstar.”

20. Dominion

The power or authority to govern, control, or influence others. It implies having complete ownership or control over a particular domain.

For example, a king or queen has dominion over their kingdom.
In a legal context, a judge has dominion over a courtroom and makes decisions that affect the outcome of a case.
A person might assert, “She has dominion over her own life. She makes her own decisions and doesn’t let others control her.”

21. Reign

This term refers to a period of time when someone has control or authority over a particular domain or group of people. It implies a sense of power and influence.

For example, “During his reign as CEO, the company experienced significant growth.”
In a discussion about historical figures, one might say, “Queen Elizabeth I had a long and prosperous reign.”
A sports fan might comment, “Tom Brady’s reign as the greatest quarterback of all time is undeniable.”

22. Hold

To have power or authority over something or someone. When someone has a hold on a situation, they are able to influence or manipulate it in some way.

For instance, “She had a strong hold on the company’s decision-making process.”
In a conversation about relationships, one might say, “He had a tight hold on her emotions.”
A politician might assert, “We need to gain a hold on the economy to bring about positive change.”

23. Impact

The effect or influence that something or someone has on a situation, person, or outcome. It refers to the ability to make a difference or create a change.

For example, “His speech had a powerful impact on the audience.”
In a discussion about environmental issues, one might say, “Individual actions can have a significant impact on reducing carbon emissions.”
A teacher might say, “I hope to make a positive impact on my students’ lives.”

24. Rule

To have control or authority over a particular domain or group of people. It implies a sense of power and influence over others.

For instance, “The king ruled over the kingdom with an iron fist.”
In a conversation about sports, one might say, “The team has ruled the league for the past decade.”
A parent might assert, “I rule this household, and my word is final.”

25. Cloutage

This term refers to the ability to have influence or power over others. It implies a sense of prestige or reputation that allows someone to sway opinions or decisions.

For example, “She used her cloutage to secure a high-profile endorsement.”
In a discussion about social media, one might say, “Influencers have built their cloutage through their online presence.”
A business leader might comment, “Networking is crucial for building cloutage in the industry.”

26. Domination

Domination refers to having complete control or power over someone or something. It often implies a sense of superiority or the ability to assert one’s will.

For example, a dictator might seek to achieve domination over a country by suppressing opposition and controlling all aspects of society.
In a sports context, a team might dominate their opponents by consistently outperforming them and winning every game.
In a business setting, a company might strive for market domination by becoming the leading player in their industry.

27. Authority

Authority refers to the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. It is often associated with a position of leadership or control.

For instance, a boss or manager has authority over their employees and can direct their actions.
In a legal context, a judge has authority to interpret and enforce the law.
A parent has authority over their children and can establish rules and expectations.

28. Control

Control refers to the ability to influence or direct someone or something. It suggests the power to manage or manipulate a situation or individual.

For example, a person might try to control a conversation by steering it towards a topic they prefer.
In a relationship, one partner might try to control the other’s actions or decisions.
A government might implement strict regulations to control the behavior of its citizens.

29. Swayage

Swayage refers to the ability to persuade or influence someone. It suggests having an impact on another person’s thoughts, opinions, or actions.

For instance, a charismatic speaker might have great swayage over their audience, convincing them to adopt their viewpoint.
In a group decision-making process, one person’s swayage might lead the group to choose a certain option.
A celebrity or influencer on social media can have significant swayage over their followers, influencing their purchasing decisions or lifestyle choices.