wield
To hold and use power, influence, or a tool effectively
Examples
In a meeting
“She wields considerable influence in the industry, so her endorsement would be valuable.”
Over coffee
“He wields that chef's knife like a professional.”
Why this word
use
Wield implies exercising power or control, especially with skill or authority
hold
Wield emphasizes active use and control, not just possession
exercise
Wield is more concrete and suggests commanding or handling something powerful
Usage tip
Use when describing the effective use of power, influence, or tools. Implies skill and authority in the application.
Etymology
Old English: wieldan (to rule, control)
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Related words
deter
To discourage someone from taking an action
compel
To force or drive someone to do something; to be irresistibly interesting
cajole
Persuade someone to do something by sustained coaxing or flattery
coerce
To persuade using force or threats
permeate
Spread throughout every part of something
catalyst
Something that causes or accelerates significant change