A person who uses their strong presence and reputation on social networks to influence opinions, trends, and purchasing decisions, often as part of marketing.
example
Als Influencerin verdient sie ihr Geld damit, auf Instagram für Kosmetikprodukte zu werben.
As an influencer, she earns her money by advertising cosmetic products on Instagram.
Usage tips
Word family
'Influencer' is an English loanword. It is directly related to the English verb 'to influence', which in German is 'beeinflussen'. So the root of the word is 'Einfluss' (influence).
EXAMPLE
Sein Einfluss in der Modewelt ist so groß, dass er als Influencer gilt.
His influence in the fashion world is so great that he is considered an influencer.
Context
The word 'Influencer' (influencer) is firmly connected with the world of social media. It is almost always used in connection with platforms like Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok and topics like marketing and advertising.
EXAMPLE
Viele junge Leute träumen davon, ein erfolgreicher Influencer zu werden.
Many young people dream of becoming a successful influencer.
Typical collocations
Common verbs used with 'Influencer' (influencer) are 'einem Influencer folgen' (to follow an influencer), 'als Influencer arbeiten' (to work as an influencer), or 'Produkte bewerben' (to promote products). The platform is often mentioned too, e.g. 'YouTube-Influencer' (YouTube influencer).
EXAMPLE
Ich folge mehreren Influencern, die über das Thema Nachhaltigkeit sprechen.
I follow several influencers who talk about sustainability.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
Influencer vs Youtuber
YouTuber
'Youtuber' and 'Influencer' can both refer to people who are known on the internet and publish content. 'Youtuber' is more specific and says that someone regularly makes videos on YouTube. 'Influencer' is broader: the person uses their visibility on social networks to influence opinions, trends, or purchasing decisions. A YouTuber can also be an influencer, but not every influencer is a YouTuber. The words are easy to confuse because both often do advertising and have many followers. The platform and the role are important.
Influencer
Die Influencerin zeigt auf Instagram neue Kleidung und viele Jugendliche folgen ihren Tipps.
The influencer shows new clothes on Instagram, and many young people follow her tips.
Youtuber
Er ist Youtuber, weil er jede Woche ein neues Technikvideo hochlädt.
He is a YouTuber because he uploads a new tech video every week.