a commanding force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a commanding force" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that has a strong influence or authority over others. Example: "The general was known as a commanding force on the battlefield, inspiring his troops with his strategic brilliance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Only a decade ago, Christian social conservatives were a commanding force in American politics.

Los Angeles Times

Five perimeter players retur, but the 6-6 center Summer Erb must replace Chasity Melvin as a commanding force inside.

The New York Times - Sports

A commanding force in Bolivian politics for decades, Washington still gives Bolivia more than $100 million a year in aid, much of it to fight the cocaine trade.

The New York Times

Though not as well known to the record-buying public as other jazz artists, she has been a commanding force on New York's music scene in settings ranging from duos and trios to big bands and full orchestras.

The Washington Post

At the time, the Sandinista solidarity movement was a commanding force on the left, one that had divided suspicious human-rights liberals from those who were so horrified by Reagan's support of the Contras that they gave the Sandinistas the benefit of any doubt.

The New Yorker

For months, Chinese intellectuals (a term loosely used to encompass students, visiting scholars, expatriate professors and other professionals of Chinese ancestry) in the United States have grown dubious of the viability of the Federation (or Front) for a Democratic China as a commanding force to lead the democracy campaign.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"With our country's defense in his hands, we have become a safer America at home, and a more commanding force abroad.

Huffington Post

To let things happen or to make things happen," she says as she evolves into a stage commanding force of nature.

HuffPost

Taulant, a defender by trade but a commanding, dogged force further forward for Albania, has been integral to their rise and should make his own move from Basel before long, with Fiorentina among those linked.

The Guardian - Sport

The organization Swairjo represents is a secular, Marxist group that was once a commanding political force in the Palestinian Liberation Organization PLOO).

Vice

But other nations' leaders harm their citizens and we, as Americans, should not be the major commanding force to push for regime change in these often-hostile nations.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a commanding force", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being commanded or influenced. For example, specify the area of influence or the entities being affected.

Common error

Avoid using "a commanding force" when the actual influence is limited or unsubstantiated. Ensure the impact aligns with the strength implied by the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a commanding force" primarily functions as a noun phrase that acts as a subject complement or an appositive. It describes something or someone that exerts significant control, authority, or influence. Ludwig examples confirm usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sports

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

3%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a commanding force" is a noun phrase used to describe an entity with substantial influence or authority. Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically correct and most frequently found in News & Media contexts, with neutral formality. While the phrase carries a strong connotation, it's crucial to ensure the context accurately reflects the entity's actual impact to avoid overstatement. Related phrases like "a dominant power" or "a leading influence" can be suitable alternatives depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dominant power

Focuses on the aspect of control and influence, suggesting a position of superiority.

a leading influence

Emphasizes guidance and direction, rather than outright control.

an authoritative presence

Highlights the impression of power and credibility that someone or something conveys.

a major player

Indicates significant involvement and impact in a particular field or situation.

a significant influence

Underscores the importance and effect that something has on others.

a powerful influence

Highlights the strength and impact of the influence.

a driving force

Implies being the primary motivator or catalyst behind something.

a potent factor

Stresses the effectiveness and strength of the influence.

a vital component

Focuses on the essential and indispensable nature of the influence.

a key figure

Highlights an individual's importance and influence.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a commanding force" in a sentence?

Use "a commanding force" to describe entities with significant influence or authority, providing context to showcase the extent of their impact. For instance: "The new CEO quickly became "a commanding force" in the industry".

What are some alternatives to "a commanding force"?

You can use alternatives like "a dominant power", "a leading influence", or "an authoritative presence" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "a commanding force" too strong of a phrase to use in formal writing?

While "a commanding force" can be appropriate in formal writing, assess whether the strength of the phrase aligns with the subject's actual impact. If the influence is less intense, consider using a milder alternative such as "a significant influence".

When is it inappropriate to use "a commanding force"?

It is inappropriate to use "a commanding force" when the subject's influence is weak, non-existent, or unverified. Overstating the impact can undermine the credibility of your writing. Make sure what you are writing is "authoritative presence".