sphere of influence

noun phrase

: a territorial area within which the political influence or the interests of one nation are held to be more or less paramount

Examples of sphere of influence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The big picture: In today's multipolar world, the U.S., Russia and China are all racing to secure their strategic interests and solidify — or expand — their spheres of influence. Zachary Basu, Axios, 28 Feb. 2025 Kremlin aggression is a desperate struggle of a failing empire to restore its sphere of influence. Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 20 Feb. 2025 The recipient of this accolade would have shown exceptional commitment to advancing sustainability practices, promoting social responsibility and fostering ethical governance within and beyond their spheres of influence The entry period will close on April 7 at 6 p.m. Hong Kong time. Anthony Demarco, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025 An aggressive Trump administration may view Iraq as part of Iran’s sphere of influence, and Iran will try to cut its losses in Syria and Lebanon by strengthening its hand in Iraq. James Durso, The Hill, 16 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sphere of influence

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sphere of influence was in 1885

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Cite this Entry

“Sphere of influence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sphere%20of%20influence. Accessed 9 Mar. 2025.

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