sphere of influence

American  

noun

PLURAL

spheres of influence

1. any area in which one nation wields dominant power over another or others.

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sphere of influence British  

noun

1. a region of the world in which one state is dominant

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Etymology

Origin of sphere of influence

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

“China is attempting to sow doubts about U.S. leadership, undermine democracy, and extend Beijing’s influence, particularly in East Asia and the western Pacific, which Beijing views as its sphere of influence,” the threat assessment states.

From Washington Times

U.S. engagement in the conflict challenged Russia’s influence in the area it regards as part of its historic sphere of influence at the time when Moscow is busy with the fighting in Ukraine.

From Seattle Times

U.S. engagement in the conflict could be seen as a challenge to Russia’s influence in an area it regards as being within its sphere of influence.

From Seattle Times

“That was meaningful because they’re developing the sense that they’re able to make choices and do things that are within their own sphere of influence—which can be limited the younger you are.”

From Scientific American

Ukraine began trading electricity with European countries in June, in a bid to move away from Russia’s sphere of influence.

From Seattle Times