影響する

• Reading: えいきょうする
• Romaji: eikyou suru
• Kanji breakdown: 影 (ei) — shadow, reflection; 響 (kyou) — echo, resound
• Pronunciation: /eː.kjoː.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To influence; to affect; to have an impact on. One of the most common words for describing cause-and-effect relationships.

A する verb formed from the noun 影響 (influence/effect). Extremely common in news, academic writing, and daily conversation. Takes に to mark what is affected. Key phrases include 影響を受ける (to be influenced) and 影響を与える (to exert influence).

Examples

1. 天気が農作物の成長に影響する。 The weather affects the growth of crops.
2. 子供は親の行動に大きく影響される。 Children are greatly influenced by their parents' behavior.
3. この決定は来年の計画に影響するだろう。 This decision will likely affect next year's plans.

Usage Guide

Context: news, academics, business

Tone: analytical

Origin & History

Compound of 影 (ei, shadow/reflection) and 響 (kyou, echo/reverberate). The metaphor combines a visual shadow and an audible echo — something that leaves a lasting trace.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal