# under the influence

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/under-the-influence
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

While intoxicated or inebriated, in any degree from mildly impaired to stupefied, by a mind-altering substance, typically alcohol; thus, especially, drunk.

## Examples

- It is illegal to drive while under the influence.
- He acts very differently when he is under the influence of alcohol.
- You should never operate heavy machinery while under the influence.
- The police officer stopped the car because the driver appeared to be under the influence.
- The doctor explained that you should not sign any legal documents while you are under the influence of these strong painkillers.
- Security guards asked the man to leave the stadium because he was clearly under the influence and bothering other fans.
- She regretted the angry text messages she sent to her boss while she was under the influence at the party.
- The court heard testimony that the defendant was clearly under the influence when he caused the accident.

## Origin

The phrase is an elliptical construction, functioning on the principle that the agent of intoxication is sufficiently understood within its context to remain unstated. The specific substance is left implicit.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.