Political Influence Vocabulary

noun a slippery or oily substance

verb to bribe or pay someone in order to gain favor or influence

• It is unethical to grease the palm of government officials in exchange for favors.
• I heard that some people try to grease the palm of the security guards to get into the event without a ticket.
• I'll grease the palm of the bouncer to let us skip the line at the club.
• Sometimes you need to grease the palm of fate to get the luck on your side.

noun the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something

verb to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something

• The researcher's findings had a significant influence on the scientific community.
• My parents' opinions always seem to influence my decisions.
• I can't believe how much my friends' taste in music has influenced mine.
• The artist's unique style of painting continues to influence modern art movements.

noun a rocking or swinging movement

verb to move or swing slowly from side to side

• The politician's speech had a powerful sway over the audience.
• The music had a nice sway to it, making everyone want to dance.
• She's got some serious sway with the popular crowd.
• The decision to invest in renewable energy will have a positive sway on the environment.

noun a group of individuals or organizations combined to promote a common interest

verb to combine or form a syndicate

• The syndicate was involved in various illegal activities across multiple countries.
• I heard that the syndicate is planning a big heist next week.
• The syndicate is always up to no good, causing trouble everywhere.
• The syndicate of powerful corporations controls the industry with their influence.

noun a small foothold or grip for the toes, as in climbing

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• The company was able to gain a toehold in the new market by forming strategic partnerships.
• I finally got a toehold on the rock and was able to climb to the top.
• She's just trying to get a toehold in the music industry, but it's tough.
• The team's early goal gave them a toehold in the match, allowing them to control the game.

noun power, might, or force; especially in a political or military context

• The country's puissance in the global economy is undeniable.
• His physical puissance was evident in the way he effortlessly lifted the heavy boxes.
• That car has serious puissance under the hood.
• The puissance of her intellect was unmatched in the academic world.

noun a person who excessively praises or flatters someone in order to gain favor or advantage

• The adulator constantly praised the politician in public speeches.
• The adulator was always kissing up to the boss to get ahead.
• The adulator was a real brown-noser, always seeking approval from higher-ups.
• The adulator's words were like honey, sweet and sticky, but lacking true substance.