Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'be influenced' depends on whether the influence is passive, emotional, social, or physical. The most common pattern uses the passive form of verbs like 影響する (to influence), but other expressions capture nuance like being swayed, affected, or moved.
To be influenced by something in a general sense, often using the passive form of 影響する.
The passive form of 影響する (to influence). This is the most direct and common way to say 'be influenced'. It can be used for people, things, or abstract concepts.
He was influenced by his friends.
The policy was influenced by public opinion.
Literally 'receive influence'. Slightly more formal than 影響される, often used in written or analytical contexts.
His work has been influenced by Western art.
To be emotionally influenced, swayed, or moved by something.
Passive of 感化する (to inspire/influence positively). Implies being inspired or morally influenced, often by a person or their example.
Influenced by her enthusiasm, I also started volunteering.
Passive of 動かす (to move). Means to be emotionally moved or touched, often by a story, speech, or act of kindness.
I was deeply moved by his speech.
Passive of 左右する (to sway/control). Means to be swayed or influenced, often by emotions, opinions, or circumstances. Can have a negative nuance of being easily manipulated.
To be affected or impacted by external conditions like weather, economy, or environment.
To be influenced by someone's teachings, philosophy, or example.
To be influenced by fashion, social media, advertising, etc.
影響される is neutral and simply means 'be influenced'. 左右される implies being swayed or controlled, often with a nuance of vulnerability or lack of control. Use 左右される when the influence is strong and potentially negative.
His decision was swayed by money.
English often uses 'be influenced' in passive constructions. In Japanese, while passive forms exist, sometimes a more active phrasing or a different verb is more natural. For example, 'I was influenced by the book' can be その本に影響された, but その本から影響を受けた is also common.
His judgment is easily influenced by emotions.
Influenced by his way of life, I also aimed to become a doctor.
彼は周りの意見に流されやすい。
He is easily influenced by the opinions of those around him.