Another Word for Leverage – Meaning, Synonyms, and Examples
The word leverage is often used in business and finance, referring to the power to influence a person or situation, or the use of borrowed capital to increase potential return. To make your English more varied and professional, learning another word for leverage will help. Using synonyms allows you to specify whether you mean influence, advantage, or a financial tool.
What is Another Word for Leverage?
A great synonym for leverage (in the sense of influence or advantage) is influence. Leverage means the use of something to maximize advantage; or, power to act effectively. Influence means the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something. Both words describe the power one entity holds over another to achieve a goal. Learning words like influence helps you emphasize the personal or political sway, rather than the mechanical or financial aspect.
Meaning of “Leverage”
Leverage (noun) means the use of borrowed capital for an investment (finance); or, power to act effectively; or, the mechanical advantage gained by a lever. (Verb) means to use (something) to maximum advantage.
We use the noun for influence (to gain leverage in negotiations), or finance (high financial leverage). We use the verb for action (to leverage technology).
Synonyms for “Leverage”
Here are some common ways to say leverage:
- Influence: The capacity to have an effect on someone or something. A strong alternative for power/sway.
- Advantage: A condition or circumstance that puts one in a favorable position. Used when emphasizing superiority or benefit.
- Clout: Influence or power, especially in politics or business. A strong, slightly more informal word for power.
- Capital: Wealth in the form of money or other assets owned by a person or organization. Used when referring to the financial aspect (borrowed capital).
- Harness: (Verb) To control and make use of (natural resources or forces). Used when emphasizing maximizing utility.
Example Sentences
- The union holds significant influence over the terms of the labor contract.
- Having insider knowledge gave the team a clear advantage in the competition.
- His long career in public service gave him considerable clout with local officials.
- The startup needs additional venture capital to fund its next phase of growth.
- We must harness the power of social media to market our products effectively.
Mini Dialogue
Sam: “How can we gain leverage in these negotiations?”
Mia: “We need to demonstrate our clout in the market. That gives us a clear advantage.”
Sam: “And we must harness our existing resources to show strength.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don’t say: She has the leverage to decide everything. (The word is often used with over or in.)
✅ Do say: She has influence over the decisions. (Or: She has leverage in the negotiations.)
Let’s Practice!
Which synonym best fits this sentence? “The company decided to take on additional debt __________ to fuel its expansion plans.” (Answer: Capital – This synonym works best because it refers specifically to the financial resources, which is the core meaning of financial leverage.)
Practice Tip
Use one new synonym for leverage in your next business conversation today.
Final Note
Knowing what is another word for leverage and practicing synonyms like influence and advantage will help you describe power and financial strategy clearly.
