Assume control of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Assume control of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing taking charge or responsibility for a situation, task, or group. Example: "In times of crisis, it is essential for a leader to assume control of the situation to guide their team effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Under what circumstances did they assume control of North Korea?

The Guardian

Democrats are now preparing to assume control of the House.

The New York Times

The army is to assume control of all militias in Benghazi, according to the Libya Herald.

The Guardian

Soon the Federal Bureau of Narcotics began to assume control of the medical treatment of addiction.

The New Yorker

Plum Creek management will assume control of the company, which will bear the Plum Creek name.

The New York Times

If it finds it unworkable, it has the power to assume control of the county's operations.

The New York Times

Everything possible to make it as easy as possible to assume control of a classroom".

The Guardian

The town had invited prominent artists and intellectuals to assume control of the government.

The New York Times

Mr. Diller said Mr. Harman's estate would assume control of his stake in the magazine.

The New York Times

He went on to assume control of the company's commercial leasing operation.

The Washington Post

Israeli leaders say they want the Lebanese Army to assume control of the border eventually.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "assume control of" when emphasizing the act of taking responsibility or authority, especially in situations where a transition of power or responsibility is occurring. For example, 'After the CEO's resignation, the vice president will "assume control of" the company.'

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "assume control of" in very informal settings can sound overly formal or stilted. Consider using simpler alternatives like "take over" or "handle" for everyday conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "assume control of" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating the action of taking charge or responsibility for something. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Many of the examples provided show this phrase used in the context of leadership or the transfer of power.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "assume control of" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that signifies taking responsibility or authority over something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as formal business contexts, it denotes a transition of power or oversight. While appropriate for professional and neutral settings, simpler alternatives like "take over" might be preferable in informal conversations. Its robust usage across authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its reliability in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Take charge of

Emphasizes immediate action and leadership.

Seize control of

Suggests a more forceful or opportunistic acquisition of authority.

Take command of

Implies a hierarchical structure and a clear chain of authority.

Gain control over

Highlights the process of acquiring control, rather than the state of having it.

Assume authority over

Focuses on the legitimacy or right to control.

Take over

A simpler, more direct alternative with a slightly broader meaning.

Step into a leadership role

Emphasizes the act of entering a position of influence.

Get a grip on

More informal, suggesting regaining control of a situation.

Be at the helm of

Implies guidance and direction, similar to steering a ship.

Take the reins

Suggests directing and guiding something, like horses pulling a carriage.

FAQs

What does "assume control of" mean?

The phrase "assume control of" means to take responsibility or authority over something. It indicates a transition where one person or entity begins to manage or direct something previously managed by someone else.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "assume control of"?

It's appropriate to use "assume control of" in formal contexts such as news reports, business communications, or academic writing when describing the transfer of authority or responsibility. It can also be used in less formal situations, although alternatives might be preferred.

What are some alternatives to "assume control of"?

You can use alternatives like "take charge of", "take over", or "gain control of" depending on the context.

Is "assume control of" formal or informal?

The phrase "assume control of" leans towards the formal side, but it's versatile enough to be used in neutral contexts as well. Simpler alternatives might be preferable in very informal settings.