a substantial command of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial 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: "To excel in this role, you must have a substantial command of data analysis techniques."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"No other actress could play Katniss Everdeen, and for that reason, she can command a substantial cut of profits".

The Guardian - Film

"Were it to be decided to proceed with a new reactor programme, there is no doubt that this decision would command a substantial slice of political leadership.

The Guardian

While "no food manufacturer commands a substantial share of total world processed food sales", focused growth has nevertheless created "concentrated markets...at specific product and country levels" [ 17].

Globalization and Health

With their predicted involvement in transcriptional regulation and their unusually dynamic evolutionary histories, vertebrate polydactyl ZNF genes have commanded a substantial amount of analytical attention.

Genome Biology and Evolution

Within the larger category of wall décor, framed art has historically commanded a substantial portion of the market, with roughly 70% of wall décor items being framed pictures.

Bplans

EFV-based regimens are recommended as first-line and command a substantial market share of current ART use; yet as EFV is now off patent and generic versions are available at lower cost, it is likely that the use of EFV containing regimens will increase in resource limited settings where cost of medications has prohibited widespread access to therapy.

EBioMedicine

In order to achieve active control for improved machining accuracy and efficiency, the control commands will include a substantial amount of high frequency signals.

Journal of Materials Processing Technology

The two rallies showed that Mr. Assad and his government still command support from a substantial part of the population seven months after the uprising started.

The New York Times

Returning to Egypt, Hart was heavily involved with the training of his command, which included a substantial number of replacements.

Wikipedia

Furthermore, he had close connections with the Flavian dynasty and commanded the respect of a substantial part of the Senate.

Wikipedia

It helped to convince the high command, their political backers and a substantial portion of French public opinion to defend the conviction, even as evidence mounted that Dreyfus – by now serving a life sentence on Devil's Island – was innocent.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a substantial command of" when you want to emphasize not just knowledge, but also the ability to effectively use that knowledge. It conveys a sense of practical skill and control.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial command of" in casual conversation. It can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler phrases like "good at" or "knows a lot about".

Linguistic Context

The phrase functions as an adjectival modifier, describing the extent and quality of someone's ability or knowledge. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and usable, but its frequency varies depending on the context.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a substantial command of" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase to describe someone's proficiency in a particular skill. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, this phrase appears infrequently in Ludwig's database, making it difficult to derive specific usage patterns. However, based on its structure and meaning, it is best suited for professional and neutral contexts where a formal tone is appropriate. Alternatives like ""a thorough mastery of"" or ""a strong grasp of"" offer similar meanings with slight nuances in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thorough mastery of

Replaces "command" with "mastery" to emphasize expertise; "thorough" adds intensity.

a deep understanding of

Focuses on comprehension rather than control; "deep" highlights the extent of understanding.

a strong grasp of

Emphasizes a firm hold on the subject matter, suggesting practical application.

extensive knowledge of

Highlights the breadth of information possessed, shifting focus from skill to knowledge.

considerable expertise in

Replaces "command" with "expertise", framing the proficiency as specialized skill.

proficiency in

A more concise way of expressing competence, suitable for formal contexts.

competence in

Similar to "proficiency", but slightly broader, indicating general ability.

adeptness at

Focuses on skill and dexterity in performing a task.

skillfulness in

Highlights the refined technique and artistry involved.

a talent for

Suggests an innate ability or natural aptitude.

FAQs

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

You can use "a substantial command of" to describe someone's proficiency in a particular subject or skill. For example, "To excel in this role, you must have a substantial command of data analysis techniques".

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

You can use alternatives like "a thorough mastery of", "a deep understanding of", or "a strong grasp of" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a substantial command in" or "a substantial command of"?

"A substantial command of" is the correct and idiomatic phrasing. The preposition "of" is essential to properly connect the command to its subject.

What's the difference between "a strong understanding of" and "a substantial command of"?

While both suggest competence, "a strong understanding of" emphasizes comprehension, while "a substantial command of" implies both understanding and the ability to effectively apply that knowledge.