a greater command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a greater command" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's superior ability or authority over a subject or skill. Example: "Her years of experience in the field give her a greater command of the subject than her peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The only thing a playwright should be concerned with winning is a greater command over the truth and his art.

The New Yorker

But a transcript would most likely show that Mr. Quinn displayed a greater command and offered more specifics.

The New York Times

I always loved a Sabeth days letter, for then you had a greater command of your time — but hush to all complaints.

The New Yorker

On the air, he castigated Emanuel as a practitioner of "the politics of personal destruction," before switching the subject to an area in which he clearly felt a greater command — the still simmering Acorn scandal.

The New Yorker

But the movie is smart and tightly drawn; it has a throat-gripping urgency and some serious insights, and Scott has a greater command of space and a more explicit way with violence than most thriller directors Ferris gets mashed like a Florida orange in a squeezer.

The New Yorker

If you paid attention to the content, and used it as a gauge to determine which candidate was better prepared, was more knowledgeable, had a greater command of the facts and grasp of the issues, then Vice President Gore won easily.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

He has a great command of pacing, he's got some good technical things.

The Guardian - Books

"Tremendous insight, a tremendous knowledge of personnel, a great command of the intricacies of the game from a strategic standpoint".

The New York Times

Mr. Obama was powerful, forceful and in control, and had a great command of facts and figures.

The New York Times

She said: "It has been reported that this woman did not have a great command of English or was fully aware of her rights under Irish law.

The Guardian

"At the time it was a campaign, the governor wasn't selecting it, but what I saw in Senator Clinton was an innate ability to move people and a great command over substantive material.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a greater command" when you want to emphasize a notable increase in someone's skill, knowledge, or authority. For example, "After years of study, she demonstrated a greater command of the subject matter."

Common error

While "command" and "control" can be related, "command" often implies a deeper understanding or mastery. Avoid using "a greater control" when you really mean someone has a more profound knowledge or skill.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a greater command" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or preposition to describe a higher degree of mastery, control, or expertise. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a greater command" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that signifies a higher degree of skill, knowledge, or authority. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered proper for use in written English. It frequently appears in News & Media contexts and is also present in Scientific and Encyclopedia sources. While synonyms like "superior mastery" or "enhanced control" exist, "a greater command" often implies a deeper understanding or mastery beyond simple control. Remember to use "a greater command" to highlight a notable improvement or superiority in a specific domain.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

improved command

Specifies that the control has been enhanced from a previous status.

superior mastery

Emphasizes a higher level of skill and expertise.

enhanced control

Focuses on increased power and regulation over something.

advanced skill

Indicates an evolved degree of capability in a practice.

deeper understanding

Highlights a more profound level of comprehension.

broader expertise

Suggests a wider range of knowledge and skills.

refined expertise

Highlights a more polished, precise or improved expertise.

elevated proficiency

Implies a higher degree of competence and skill.

heightened authority

Focuses on increased power and influence.

more extensive grasp

Highlights a better and more complete comprehension.

FAQs

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

You can use "a greater command" to describe someone's superior ability or authority over something. For instance, "Her experience gave her a greater command of the situation."

What's a good substitute for "a greater command"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "superior mastery", "enhanced control", or "deeper understanding".

Is it correct to say "a greater control" instead of "a greater command"?

While "control" and "command" share similarities, "a greater command" often implies a more profound understanding or skill, whereas "control" focuses more on direct influence or regulation. The better choice depends on the specific context.

When should I use "a greater command" versus "a good command"?

"A good command" indicates a general level of proficiency, while "a greater command" suggests a noticeable improvement or superiority over a previous state or compared to others. For example: "He has a good command of French, but she has "a greater command"."