I have a strong command of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I have a strong command of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express proficiency or expertise in a particular subject or skill. Example: "I have a strong command of the Spanish language, which allows me to communicate effectively with native speakers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

'He doesn't have a strong command of the English language when he calls me a plod,' he said of Healey's outburst.

The Guardian - Sport

Editors must have a strong command of English grammar, syntax and mechanics to edit the work of others clearly, confidently and correctly.

University of California, Berkeley

It was based on the assumption that most 5-year-olds have a strong command of their native language and that reading starts by matching the language in their heads with graphemes on the printed page (or screen).

International Journal of STEM Education

He has a strong command of detail and a sense of humor, albeit a sardonic one.

The New York Times

Darius Charney of the Center for Constitutional Rights, one of the lawyers for the plaintiffs in the case against the city, welcomed the judge's decision, saying that Mr. Bloomberg had a strong command of the case.

The New York Times

If you think Clinton is smart and has a strong command of the issues but you think Trump is a BS artist who routinely lies, when they clash over facts in the debate, who are you going to believe?

Huffington Post

Among the wider spectrum of registered voters in this poll after the Democratic National Convention last week, Mr. Obama has a stronger command of the race.

The New York Times

Among a wider sample of registered voters, which included fewer voters who identified themselves as Republicans, Mr. Obama has a stronger command of the race.

The New York Times

Coaching was one option, but without a strong command of English, he had a hard time finding work.

The New York Times - Sports

A wave of locally-focused community leaders has brought to Los Angeles candidates for office who read, believe in science and wield a strong command of state-of-the-art urban policy and practice.

HuffPost

It seemed that the Vice President had underestimated this highly experienced congresswoman and former Queens district attorney, who could handle herself under pressure while maintaining a strong command of the issues.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow this phrase with specific examples that demonstrate your skills. Instead of saying "I have a strong command of data analysis", specify "I have a strong command of data analysis, demonstrated by my successful implementation of machine learning models in three projects."

Common error

Avoid using "I have a strong command of" if you only possess basic or intermediate skills. Overstating your abilities can damage your credibility. Instead, use phrases like "I am familiar with" or "I have some experience in."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I have a strong command of" functions as a declarative statement expressing the speaker's high level of proficiency or expertise in a particular skill, language, or subject. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I have a strong command of" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to assert one's proficiency in a specific area, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as a declarative statement, serving the communicative purpose of conveying competence and qualification. It's appropriate for professional and neutral registers, making it suitable for resumes, academic papers, and reports. While widely accepted, it’s crucial to use the phrase accurately, ensuring your skill level aligns with the claim to maintain credibility. Remember to support your claim with specific examples that demonstrate your skills. Ludwig also offers several alternatives to this phrase, for fine-tuning your writing based on context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I possess a high degree of proficiency in

Replaces "command" with "proficiency" and restructures the sentence slightly.

I am highly skilled in

Uses a more direct and active voice, focusing on skill level.

I have extensive knowledge of

Shifts focus to knowledge rather than ability, implying deep understanding.

I am well-versed in

A more formal way of indicating comprehensive knowledge and experience.

I am adept at

Highlights natural talent and skill in a specific area.

I have a firm grasp of

Emphasizes a solid and secure understanding.

I excel in

Focuses on superior performance and achievement.

I am competent in

Indicates a satisfactory level of skill and ability.

I am experienced in

Highlights practical experience and familiarity.

I am capable of

Focuses on the ability to perform a specific task or function effectively.

FAQs

How can I use "I have a strong command of" in a sentence?

This phrase is typically followed by the subject or skill in which you possess expertise. For example: "I have a strong command of project management", "I have a strong command of the English language" or "I have a strong command of statistical analysis".

What are some alternatives to "I have a strong command of"?

You can use alternatives like "I possess a high degree of proficiency in", "I am highly skilled in", or "I have extensive knowledge of" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "I have a strong command of"?

Use this phrase when you want to confidently and clearly express your expertise in a specific subject or skill, particularly in professional contexts such as resumes, cover letters, or during interviews. It implies a high level of proficiency and experience.

Which is correct, "I have a strong command of" or "I have good command of"?

"I have a strong command of" indicates a higher level of proficiency than "I have good command of". "Strong command" suggests deep understanding and skill, while "good command" implies competence but not necessarily expertise.