a sound command of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sound command of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's strong understanding or proficiency in a particular subject or skill. Example: "She has a sound command of the English language, which allows her to communicate effectively in both writing and speaking."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The seventeen-year-old prodigy Yujia Wang made lush, booming sounds in the Grieg Piano Concerto, and she also displayed an intelligent command of phrase and form.

The New Yorker

Aren't they themselves like something from a fairytale, their italics giving them a sound of command, like the geasa, or magical prohibitions, which get so many heroes and heroines into trouble?

The Guardian - Books

"Jay?" Mona's voice was flattened, drained of vitality, but with an insinuating weight to it, a desperate muscle of sound, commanding me to listen.

The New Yorker

Throughout, Steven Gross, a one-man band on piano, provides an essential rush of urgent sound with an especially exciting command of trills.

The New York Times

A sound of sorrow.

The New York Times

Still, this set puts him firmly in the spotlight as an artist in command of his own sound.

Vice

He had a command of the mixing console, latest sound-enhancement technology and methods to capture audio.

HuffPost

A reasonable command of the issues.

Huffington Post

A command of standard Chinese is essential.

The Economist

A command of English is not essential.

The New York Times

From the first lines of Norma's entrance — in which the druids, chafing under the degradation they suffer from the Romans, are poised to rebel — Ms. Meade sounded in complete command of the role, delivering the character's charged, defiant dramatic recitative with gleaming sound and incisive attack.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sound command of", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific subject or skill being referenced to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a sound command of" if the individual's proficiency is only basic or intermediate. Reserve it for situations where there is demonstrable expertise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sound command of" functions as an adjective phrase followed by a noun and preposition, typically modifying a noun to indicate proficiency or expertise in a specific area. Although Ludwig does not provide direct confirmation via examples, the structure itself is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sound command of" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe someone's strong proficiency or expertise. While Ludwig doesn't provide usage examples, which limits detailed analysis, the phrase is structured appropriately for professional and formal contexts. Alternatives like "a strong grasp of" or "a firm understanding of" offer similar meanings. Ensure to use it when there's demonstrable expertise to avoid overstating one's abilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an expert command of

Indicates a high level of skill and knowledge.

a strong grasp of

Emphasizes the strength and firmness of understanding.

a thorough understanding of

Emphasizes the depth and completeness of comprehension.

a firm understanding of

Highlights the stability and completeness of comprehension.

a solid knowledge of

Focuses on the depth and reliability of the information possessed.

a comprehensive mastery of

Stresses complete and thorough control over the subject.

a proficient handling of

Highlights the skill and dexterity in managing something.

a skillful management of

Focuses on the ability to effectively handle a particular task or situation.

a deft control over

Highlights the nimbleness and precision in handling something.

a capable handling of

Focuses on the ability to effectively manage a particular task or situation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a sound command of" to describe someone's proficiency or expertise in a particular subject or skill. For example, "She has "a sound command of" the English language".

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

You can use alternatives like "a strong grasp of", "a firm understanding of", or "a solid knowledge of" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a sound command of" in a formal context?

Yes, "a sound command of" is suitable for formal contexts such as academic papers, business reports, and professional communications.

What does it mean to have "a sound command of" something?

To have "a sound command of" something means to have a strong, reliable, and thorough understanding or skill in that area.