a clear command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear command" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an instruction or directive that is straightforward and easy to understand. Example: "The manager issued a clear command to the team, outlining the steps needed to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

There's a clear command presence.

The New York Times

Style: The document demonstrates that the author has a clear command of the English language.

University of California, Berkeley

For some Orthodox Jews, though, it is a clear command: thou shalt not hear a woman sing.

The New York Times

If no objects are current - e.g. a clear command was just issued - a value of None is returned.

Harvard University

He also has a clear command of the history, pointedly recounting the other occasions in our past when we have transgressed against our Constitution.

The New York Times - Books

"It's a clear command of Shariah that any female that by any means plays (a) role in war against mujahideen (holy warriors) should be killed," the statement said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

In a clear, commanding voice, he said the defense failed to argue an important point: that its client never used steroids.

The New York Times - Sports

The parliamentary committee has been asking questions about the need for a clearer command structure to tackle cyber-attacks during its evidence sessions.

The Guardian - Business

In its report on the Police Department, the consultant called for a clearer delineation of the roles and responsibilities of the department's leaders because of a lack of clear command structure and direction during and after the Sept. 11 attack.

The New York Times

"We now have the ability to establish an effective and clear command channel," Chief Hart said.

The New York Times

Rungis' head of Public Affairs and Governance, Bérengère Banquey, is a confident woman with clear command of her industry.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a clear command", ensure the context clearly indicates who is giving the command and to whom it is directed. This clarifies responsibility and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming unspoken expectations are "a clear command". Explicitly state instructions to prevent misunderstandings and ensure compliance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear command" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "clear" modifies the noun "command". According to Ludwig, this phrase refers to a directive that is straightforward and easily understood.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a clear command" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression that signifies an easily understood instruction or directive. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. It's frequently found in news media, academic writing, and formal business settings. When using this phrase, ensure the context clarifies who is giving the command and to whom it's directed, thus avoiding ambiguity. Alternatives include "a distinct directive" or "an explicit instruction", offering slight variations in emphasis while maintaining the core meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a distinct directive

Replaces "command" with "directive" and "clear" with "distinct", emphasizing the unambiguous nature of the order.

an unambiguous order

Substitutes "clear command" with a more direct expression, highlighting the lack of ambiguity in the instruction.

an explicit instruction

Uses "explicit instruction" instead of "clear command", stressing the detailed and precise nature of the directive.

a precise order

Replace "clear" with "precise", highlighting the accuracy of instructions.

a well-defined mandate

Shifts the focus to the authority behind the command, implying a clearly defined responsibility or power.

a straightforward directive

Uses more common synonyms emphasizing simplicity and directness.

a lucid directive

Lucid emphasizes the easy-to-understand nature of the command.

a definitive instruction

Stresses the finality and authoritativeness of the instruction.

an unequivocal order

Similar to "unambiguous", this emphasizes the lack of doubt or uncertainty.

a plain instruction

Focuses on the simplicity and ease of understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear command" in a sentence?

You can use "a clear command" to describe an order or instruction that is easy to understand and follow. For example, "The general issued "a clear command" to advance."

What can I say instead of "a clear command"?

You can use alternatives like "a distinct directive", "an unambiguous order", or "an explicit instruction" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "a clear command" and "a clear instruction"?

While both phrases convey the idea of something being easily understood, "a clear command" implies authority and obedience, whereas "a clear instruction" focuses on providing guidance for a specific task.

Is it redundant to say "a clear and concise command"?

While not strictly redundant, "a clear command" often implies conciseness. Adding "and concise" can emphasize brevity, but it's usually unnecessary unless you specifically want to highlight the command's succinctness.