The spelling of "be influenced" can be explained through its phonetic transcription in IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) as bɪ ɪnˈfluənst. The first syllable "bɪ" is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by the stress on the second syllable "ɪn", which is pronounced with a long "ee" sound. The third syllable "ˈfluə" is pronounced with stress on the first syllable, followed by a schwa sound in the second syllable. The final syllable "nst" is pronounced with a nasal "n" sound followed by the "st" consonant cluster.
"Be influenced" refers to the act of being affected or shaped by external factors, individuals, or ideas, resulting in a change in one's thoughts, beliefs, attitudes, behavior, or decision-making process. It suggests that an individual's opinions, actions, or choices are not solely driven by their own original or inherent qualities, but rather, are subject to the impact of various influences.
Influences can take many forms, including peers, society, family, culture, media, environment, experiences, or personal encounters. When one is influenced, their perspectives or behaviors often align with or adapt to the perspectives or behaviors of those influencing them. The influence can be both positive or negative, depending on the nature and intentions of the influencing agents.
Being influenced implies a certain level of susceptibility or openness to external opinions, allowing them to shape one's own viewpoints or actions. This can occur consciously or subconsciously, as people are constantly exposed to different ideas and perspectives in their daily lives.
Nevertheless, being influenced does not necessarily indicate a lack of independent thinking or assertiveness. It simply acknowledges the acknowledgment of the power that external forces can have over an individual's thoughts and actions, emphasizing the interconnectedness between individuals and the world around them.
Overall, being influenced entails being affected by external factors or agents, leading to changes in thoughts, beliefs, behaviors, or decision-making processes. It recognizes the dynamic nature of human interactions and the capacity for individuals to adapt and evolve based on external stimuli.
The word influence comes from the Old French word influenz which means an emanation from the stars that acts upon one's character and destiny. This Old French term was derived from the Latin word influentia, meaning a flowing in. It referred to the belief that certain celestial bodies emitted subtle forces that could affect human behavior and the course of events. Over time, the meaning of influence expanded to encompass the general concept of an external force or authority affecting someone's thoughts, actions, or decisions. The phrase be influenced is derived from this broader understanding of the word influence.