a degree of control

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a degree of control" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the extent or level of control someone has over a situation or process. Example: "The manager has a degree of control over the project's budget and timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So much for Monty having a degree of control.

The Guardian - Sport

Madrid began to exercise a degree of control.

The Guardian - Sport

It also gave the Wachowskis a degree of control most film-makers can only dream about.

The Guardian - Film

Such a degree of control over matters of faith is highly unusual in the Muslim world.

The Guardian

While science maintains a degree of control over scientific evidence, uncertainty is anyone's game.

The Guardian

Never has there been such a degree of control from City Hall".

The New York Times

"So, from my point of view, that's something I can have a degree of control over.

The Guardian - Sport

By doing that, you bring them under a degree of control.

The New York Times - Magazine

At the same time, because her face isn't visible, she retains a degree of control.

The New York Times - Arts

Finally, these weapons offer a degree of control to those supplying them.

The New York Times

Watching and modifying the visualizations gives you a degree of control over your body's response to pain.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a degree of control", clarify the specific area or aspect over which the control is exerted to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "the manager has a degree of control", specify "the manager has a degree of control over the budget".

Common error

Avoid overstating the extent of control. "A degree of control" implies partial or limited influence, not absolute power. Using it to describe complete command can mislead your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a degree of control" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes the extent to which someone or something can influence or direct a situation or process. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

20%

Science

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a degree of control" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate the extent of influence or authority someone or something has over a situation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb or preposition. It appears most frequently in news and media, academic, and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral to professional register. When employing this phrase, clarity is key; specify what area of control is being discussed. While alternatives like "some level of influence" and "a certain amount of power" exist, they offer subtle shifts in meaning. Be mindful not to overstate the level of control being described, as "a degree" implies partial, not absolute, command.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Some level of influence

Replaces "degree" with "level" for a less formal tone and replaces "control" with "influence" to show that the result is not directly decided, but suggested.

A certain amount of power

Substitutes "degree of control" with "amount of power" focusing on the capacity to affect outcomes.

A measure of authority

Replaces "control" with "authority" suggesting a more formal or legitimate influence.

A specific level of command

Replaces "degree of control" with "level of command" emphasizing direct authority and direction.

Partial authority

Uses "authority" instead of "control", implying legitimate power that is not absolute.

Limited governance

Emphasizes the aspect of governing or managing, but with restrictions.

Some say in

Informal way to express having "a degree of control" or influence over a decision or situation.

Hands-on Management

Replacing a degree of control for direct engagement.

Oversight responsibility

Emphasizes the duty to supervise and ensure proper execution.

Administrative power

Focuses on the power related to managing tasks and processes.

FAQs

How can I use "a degree of control" in a sentence?

You can use "a degree of control" to describe the amount of influence someone or something has over a situation. For example: "The project manager has "a degree of control" over the project timeline".

What are some alternatives to "a degree of control"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "some level of influence", "a certain amount of power", or "a measure of authority".

Is it better to say "a degree of control" or "complete control"?

The choice depends on the actual level of control. "A degree of control" implies partial or limited influence, while "complete control" suggests absolute power and total command. Use the phrase that accurately reflects the situation.

How does "a degree of control" differ from "no control"?

"A degree of control" suggests some level of influence or authority, even if limited. In contrast, "no control" indicates a complete lack of influence or ability to affect the outcome.