Grammar fix
undue influence
improper or excessive influence (especially over decisions or people)
The act of affecting someone's decisions, actions, or opinions in a way that is inappropriate, excessive, or unfair, often by using power, authority, or pressure.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
- The investigation found that the manager had exerted undue influence over the hiring process.society
- In my opinion, advertising can have an undue influence on young people, especially when it comes to unhealthy food choices.IELTS speaking
Fix the pattern
Pattern: undue influence (on/over someone/something)
WrongHe had an undue influence over her.
RightHe had undue influence over her.
'Undue influence' is uncountable in this sense — no 'an'.
Patternundue influence (on/over someone/something)
Use it right
Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.
'Undue influence' is the fixed (often legal) term; spelling it out loses the precise meaning.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
undue influence + overover the elderlyexert undue influenceunderclaims of
Don't confuse it
Unlike general uses of 'influence', 'undue influence' always implies that the influence is excessive or improper, often with negative consequences. It is not used for positive or neutral influence.