Inspiration vs. Influence: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Published on November 8, 2023
Inspiration refers to the stimulation of the mind or emotions to create or act, while influence is the capacity to affect the behavior, development, or decisions of others.
Key Differences
Inspiration is often an internal spark that ignites creativity or prompts action within an individual. It's the intangible force that encourages new ideas or motivates someone to accomplish something. On the contrary, influence is an external force or power that can shape or modify one's behavior, decisions, or perspectives.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
Inspiration usually has an emotional or intellectual resonance, driving people to feel or think in a particular manner. It can be spontaneous, stemming from moments of clarity or epiphany. Influence, however, often operates through persuasion, authority, or past experience, leading one to adopt specific behaviors, beliefs, or decisions.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
While inspiration can be fleeting, coming in sudden bursts and then fading, influence tends to be more persistent and pervasive. The impact of influence can be long-lasting, molding an individual's habits, decisions, and worldview over time.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
Inspiration is generally seen as a positive force, motivating people to achieve their best, chase their passions, or overcome obstacles. While influence can also be positive, it carries the potential to be manipulative or coercive, depending on the intent of the influencer.
Harlon Moss
Nov 08, 2023
Sources of inspiration can be varied – from nature, art, and personal experiences to historical events. Influence, on the other hand, is often linked to individuals, institutions, media, or cultural norms that wield some form of power or authority.
Harlon Moss
Nov 08, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Stimulation of mind/emotions
Capacity to affect behavior or decisions
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
Source
Internal spark or external stimuli
External individuals, media, or institutions
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
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Inspiration and Influence Definitions
Inspiration
Divine guidance or influence exerted on the mind.
Many artists claim their works come from a higher inspiration.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 25, 2023
Influence
A person or thing with the capacity to have an effect on someone.
He was a major influence in the music industry.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 25, 2023
Inspiration
The process of being mentally or emotionally stimulated.
The scenic view provided the artist with the inspiration he needed.
Harlon Moss
Oct 25, 2023
Influence
The power derived from status, contacts, or importance.
Using her influence, she secured a job for her brother.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 25, 2023
Inspiration
A person or thing that evokes admiration or creativity.
She cited her grandmother as her chief inspiration in life.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 25, 2023
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Influence
The act of producing effects on actions, behavior, or opinions.
The media's influence on public opinion is undeniable.
Janet White
Oct 25, 2023
Inspiration
The excitement of the mind or emotions to a high level of feeling or activity
A singer who found her inspiration in popular songs of the 1920s.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
A power to sway based on prestige or ability.
The influence of classical literature remains strong in academia.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 25, 2023
Inspiration
The condition of being so excited
Sat down to write in a sudden burst of inspiration.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
A power affecting a person, thing, or course of events, especially one that operates without any direct or apparent effort
The pervasive influence that TV has on modern life.
Young people falling under the influence of a radical philosopher.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
The quality of being so excited, as manifested in something
A painting full of inspiration.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
Power to sway or affect based on prestige, wealth, ability, or position
Used her family's influence to get the job.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
A person or thing that moves the intellect or emotions or prompts action or invention
Gandhi has been an inspiration to political reformers for decades.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
A person who exerts such power
My parents considered my friend to be a bad influence on me.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
Something, such as a sudden creative act or idea, that is inspired
Had an inspiration and saw a way to solve the problem.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
A determining factor believed by some to affect individual tendencies and characteristics understood to be caused by the positions of the stars and planets at the time of one's birth.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
Divine guidance or influence exerted directly on a human mind or soul.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
Factors believed to be caused by the changing positions of the stars and planets in relation to their positions at the time of one's birth.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
The act of drawing in, especially the inhalation of air into the lungs.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
To have an influence on (something); change
A news report that influenced the outcome of the election.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
The drawing of air into the lungs, accomplished in mammals by elevation of the chest walls and flattening of the diaphragm, as part of the act of respiration.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
To change the behavior or thinking of (someone); sway
Negative ads that are intended to influence voters.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
The power to affect, control or manipulate something or someone; the ability to change the development of fluctuating things such as conduct, thoughts or decisions.
I have absolutely no influence over him.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
A supernatural divine influence on the prophets, apostles, or sacred writers, by which they were qualified to communicate moral or religious truth with authority; a supernatural influence which qualifies people to receive and communicate divine truth; also, the truth communicated.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
An action exerted by a person or thing with such power on another to cause change.
I'm not able to exercise influence over him.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
The act of an elevating or stimulating influence upon the intellect, emotions or creativity.
She was waiting for inspiration to write a book.
Usage notes: In this sense, it may be followed by the adposition to in relation to the person being influenced, and for or to in relation to the idea or activity:
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
A person or thing exerting such power or action.
He has been a great influence on the voters during the elections.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
A person, object, or situation which quickens or stimulates an influence upon the intellect, emotions or creativity.
The trip was an inspiration to her for writing a book.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
(astrology) An element believed to determine someone's character or individual tendencies, caused by the position of the stars and planets at the time of one's birth.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
A new idea, especially one which arises suddenly and is clever or creative.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
The act of inspiring or breathing in; breath; specif. (Physiol.), the drawing of air into the lungs, accomplished in mammals by elevation of the chest walls and flattening of the diaphragm; - the opposite of expiration.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
The act or power of exercising an elevating or stimulating influence upon the intellect or emotions; the result of such influence which quickens or stimulates; as, the inspiration of occasion, of art, etc.
Your father was ever virtuous, and holy men at their death have good inspirations.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
(transitive) To have an effect on by using gentle or subtle action; to exert an influence upon; to modify, bias, or sway; to persuade or induce.
The politician wants to influence the public.
I must admit that this book influenced my outlook on life.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
A supernatural divine influence on the prophets, apostles, or sacred writers, by which they were qualified to communicate moral or religious truth with authority; a supernatural influence which qualifies men to receive and communicate divine truth; also, the truth communicated.
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God.
The age which we now live in is not an age of inspiration and impulses.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
A product of your creative thinking and work;
He had little respect for the inspirations of other artists
After years of work his brainchild was a tangible reality
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
A flowing in or upon; influx.
God hath his influence into the very essence of all things.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
Hence, in general, the bringing about of an effect, physical or moral, by a gradual process; controlling power quietly exerted; agency, force, or tendency of any kind which affects, modifies, or sways; as, the influence which the sun exerts on animal and vegetable life; the influence of education on the mind; the influence, according to astrologers, of the stars over affairs.
Astrologers call the evil influences of the stars, evil aspects.
Canst thou bind the sweet influences of Pleiades, or loose the bands of Orion?
She said : "Ah, dearest lord! what evil starOn you hath frown'd, and poured, his influence bad?"
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
(theology) a special influence of a divinity on the minds of human beings;
They believe that the books of Scripture were written under divine guidance
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
Power or authority arising from elevated station, excelence of character or intellect, wealth, etc.; reputation; acknowledged ascendency; as, he is a man of influence in the community.
Such influence hath your excellency.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
The act of inhaling; the drawing in of air (or other gases) as in breathing
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
To control or move by power, physical or moral; to affect by gentle action; to exert an influence upon; to modify, bias, or sway; to affect; to move; to persuade; to induce.
These experiments succeed after the same manner in vacuo as in the open air, and therefore are not influenced by the weight or pressure of the atmosphere.
This standing revelation . . . is sufficient to influence their faith and practice, if they attend.
The principle which influenced their obedience has lost its efficacy.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
A sudden creative idea or insight.
Reading her story was the inspiration behind his novel.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 25, 2023
Influence
A power to affect persons or events especially power based on prestige etc;
Used her parents' influence to get the job
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Inspiration
Arousing to a particular emotion or action.
Her bravery served as an inspiration to all.
Sara Rehman
Oct 25, 2023
Influence
A cognitive factor that tends to have an effect on what you do;
Her wishes had a great influence on his thinking
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
The effect of one thing (or person) on another;
The influence of mechanical action
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
One having power to influence another;
She was the most important influence in my life
He was a bad influence on the children
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
Have and exert influence or effect;
The artist's work influenced the young painter
She worked on her friends to support the political candidate
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
Shape or influence; give direction to;
Experience often determines ability
Mold public opinion
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
Induce into action by using one's charm;
She charmed him into giving her all his money
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Influence
The power to change or affect someone or something.
Parents have a significant influence on their children's values.
Janet White
Oct 25, 2023
FAQs
What's a common source of artistic inspiration?
Nature, emotions, and personal experiences often serve as artistic inspirations.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
Can inspiration come from influence?
Yes, external influences can often inspire individuals in various ways.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
How can media exert influence?
Media can shape perceptions, opinions, and behaviors through content and narratives.
Sara Rehman
Nov 08, 2023
Can influence be unintentional?
Yes, people or things can unknowingly influence others just by their presence or actions.
Harlon Moss
Nov 08, 2023
Can a person be both an inspiration and an influence?
Absolutely, someone can inspire with their achievements and influence with their actions or advice.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
How can one find inspiration when feeling stagnant?
Seeking new experiences, reading, traveling, or introspection can reignite inspiration.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
Are influencers always aware of their influence?
Not always. Some may be oblivious to the impact they have on others.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 08, 2023
Can inspiration be negative?
While inspiration is typically seen as positive, it can arise from negative events or emotions.
Harlon Moss
Nov 08, 2023
Is self-inspiration possible?
Certainly, reflecting on one's achievements or capabilities can be a source of self-inspiration.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
What's the connection between inspiration and innovation?
Inspiration often drives innovation by fueling new ideas and approaches.
Janet White
Nov 08, 2023
What's a historical figure known for their influence?
Figures like Martin Luther King Jr. wielded significant influence in civil rights movements.
Janet White
Nov 08, 2023
How does culture play a role in inspiration?
Culture provides a backdrop of values, stories, and symbols that can inspire individuals.
Janet White
Nov 08, 2023
Can inspiration be cultivated?
Yes, by surrounding oneself with stimulating environments, experiences, or people.
Sara Rehman
Nov 08, 2023
How do personal values relate to inspiration?
Values shape what one finds meaningful or uplifting, guiding sources of inspiration.
Harlon Moss
Nov 08, 2023
Is parental influence decisive in shaping a child's future?
While it plays a significant role, many factors, including personal experiences and choices, shape one's future.
Sara Rehman
Nov 08, 2023
How does peer pressure relate to influence?
Peer pressure is a form of social influence where individuals are pushed to conform to group norms.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 08, 2023
Does music serve as a source of inspiration?
Absolutely, many find inspiration in music's melodies, lyrics, and emotions.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
Can governments influence public opinion?
Yes, through policies, propaganda, or public communications.
Sara Rehman
Nov 08, 2023
Can societal norms influence personal decisions?
Yes, societal norms often have a strong influence on individual choices and behaviors.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 08, 2023
Can businesses exert influence on consumer behavior?
Yes, through marketing, branding, and product design.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
