a complete command of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complete command of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's thorough understanding or mastery of a subject or skill. Example: "She has a complete command of the French language, allowing her to converse fluently with native speakers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

He was fair in all of his rulings and he demonstrated a complete command of the law.

The New York Times

"He was liked, he was a floor leader, he was an effective debater, and he had a complete command of the process".

The New York Times

It's very rare to find someone whose first language isn't English, yet who has such a complete command of the nuances and subtleties of the English language.

The Guardian - Film

In the 17th-century hierarchy of the various genres, history painting held the highest position, because it required a complete command of all subjects, from landscape to architecture, from still life to drapery, from animals to, above all, the human figure, in a wide range of postures, expressions, and costumes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But Brand demonstrates a complete command of his voice and body, pushing the story along, creating tension and humor and anger and sadness with understated ease.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It made for a refreshing change, not least because Ms. Genaux selected her works wisely and sang them with a stylish fluidity and a complete command both of the ornamental flourishes of Baroque music.

The New York Times

Essentially, what InnovaCom is doing is using its knowledge and understanding of digital video and MPEG-2 encoding to build a complete command and control system on top of PC industry networking gear.

Forbes

Mr. Strait wasn't any more revealing at the PNC Bank Arts Center here on Friday night, a country superstar in complete command of his gift and of exactly how much of it to mete out at any given moment.

The New York Times - Arts

Burton's most striking gift as a filmmaker is his complete command of color, and this movie makes good use of it, illustrating the colorful battle between the Red Queen and the White Queen in the second half of the movie.

Huffington Post

Rushfield, who writes the "Intelligence Report" column in Vanity Fair and is a partner in Agent X, a trend-spotting company, has complete command of his intricate plot, in which tinsel rises to the top.

The New York Times - Books

Julia Burrer dances a lament, her long arms poignantly and powerfully enshrouding and unwrapping her movements, her dark sweater flowing around her. Burrer is a formidable dancer: she has complete command of her tall and lean body, an ability to attack or surrender in just the right places, in just the right amounts.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a complete command of" to emphasize not only understanding but also the ability to effectively utilize knowledge or skills. It suggests a level of mastery that enables confident and effective action.

Common error

Avoid using "a complete command of" if the context only suggests basic or intermediate knowledge. This phrase implies a high level of expertise, so ensure it aligns with the actual level of skill being described.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complete command of" functions as a noun phrase, often following a verb like "have", "demonstrate", or "possess". It describes a state of expertise or mastery. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Encyclopedias

22%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a complete command of" is a versatile phrase used to denote a high level of expertise or mastery in a particular area. Ludwig AI indicates its grammatical correctness and usability across diverse contexts. While generally neutral to formal in register, it finds frequent application in news and encyclopedic sources, signifying widespread recognition and application. When writing, ensure its usage aligns with the actual level of expertise being described to avoid overstatement. Alternatives like "full mastery of" or "thorough understanding of" can provide nuanced options depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Full mastery of

Emphasizes comprehensive control and skill, differing slightly in its direct focus on mastery rather than command.

Thorough understanding of

Focuses on comprehension and knowledge, differing from "command" which implies active control and utilization.

Comprehensive grasp of

Highlights a firm understanding and ability to handle something, similar to command but less about direct control.

Profound knowledge of

Stresses deep and extensive knowledge, whereas "command" implies more than just knowing, but also controlling.

Exceptional expertise in

Focuses on skill and specialized knowledge, varying from "command" which can also refer to a broader sense of control.

Adeptness at

Highlights skill and proficiency, being skilled and proficient at something.

Proficiency in

Emphasizes competence and skill, differing in that "command" suggests a higher degree of control and authority.

Skillful handling of

Focuses on skillful management or manipulation, where "command" might involve broader aspects.

Complete control over

Focuses on the aspect of authority and direct control instead of the underlying mastery.

Mastery in the art of

Specifically highlights expertise in a particular art or skill, whereas "command" can be more general.

FAQs

How can I use "a complete command of" in a sentence?

Use "a complete command of" to describe someone's thorough understanding and expertise in a particular subject or skill. For example, "She has "a complete command of" the English language" or "He demonstrated "a complete command of" the subject matter during the presentation".

What are some alternatives to "a complete command of"?

Alternatives include "full mastery of", "thorough understanding of", or "comprehensive grasp of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a complete command of" instead of "good understanding of"?

"A complete command of" suggests a much higher level of expertise and control than "good understanding of". Use ""a complete command of"" when someone not only understands the subject but can also effectively apply that knowledge. Otherwise, consider using "good understanding of" if you need to suggest a basic knowledge.

Is it redundant to say "a complete and total command of"?

Yes, saying "a complete and total command of" is generally considered redundant, as "complete" already implies totality. Sticking with just ""a complete command of"" is more concise and effective.